POLICE are trying to trace a 33-year-old man after he failed to appear in court to answer a rape charge.

Sodor Alom was charged with rape following an alleged incident in Newport in January.

He was due to appear at Cardiff Crown Court on August 12 for a plea and case management hearing, but failed to appear.

Gwent Police have made unsuccessful attempts to locate Alom, so have appealed for help in tracing him.

He is described as of Asian appearance, five feet six inches tall, medium build and with very short dark hair.

He speaks Bengali and a little English and is a chef, who may seek work in the catering industry.

If anyone sees Alom, they are asked not to approach him, but to call police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.