A PAEDOPHILE at centre of a police manhunt has been spotted several times after an appeal in the Evening Telegraph.

Paul Whiteley, 47, fled an address in Accrington last Wednesday. He had been ordered to stay there following his release from prison on licence.

Detective Inspector Ian Critchley, who is leading the search, said: "There have been a number of reported sightings in the Lancashire area as a result of the appeal. We are following up those leads."

Whiteley was jailed for two years in August 2003 after he was convicted of indecent assault on a six-year-old girl in Blackpool.

And detectives yesterday took the unusual step of releasing his photograph.

As well as Blackpool and Accrington, Whiteley also was said to have connections with Blackburn and Halifax.

He was described as white, 5ft 5ins tall, of medium build, has blue eyes and short, dark brown hair. He was last seen wearing a navy England shirt and jeans.

Contact police on 01254 51212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 with information.