THE family of a man who wandered out of a hospital ward have appealed for help finding him.

Ricky Macbeth, 39, of Deepdene Road, Debden, was admitted to Whipps Cross hospital in Leytonstone at about 6am yesterday (Sunday), after raising fears with doctors that he had accidentally taken an overdose of prescription drugs.

But he disappeared at about 8am, before his test results had come back, leaving his shoes behind.

Although they showed he had not overdosed, his brother, Chris Brandi, 29, said there were still worries about his health and state of mind.

“He has had mental issues in the past, related to drinking, and is on a lot of medication,” he added. “He had a heart attack in January and is on drugs for his condition, which he needs.”

He said a friend had seen someone who resembled Mr Macbeth walking in Harlow at about 3.30pm, but could not confirm it was him.

Mr Macbeth is white, about 5ft 9ins, with a shaved head and of medium build.

Anyone who sees him or knows where he is should call Essex Police on 101.