THE parents of a teenager who has run away three times in the last six weeks were today resuming a search of Manchester in a desperate attempt to find him.

And 15-year-old Gary Hunneybell's father today appealed to his son: "Please come home and stop wasting police time."

Gary was last seen at his home in Hyndburn Road, Church, by his sister Laura, 13, last Friday evening.

He left, telling her that he would contact his parents, Andy and Lisa, to tell them he was OK.

The couple have yet to hear from the eldest son and have now contacted police as concern grows for the Moorhead High School pupil's safety.

Mr Hunneybell said: "It is the third time he has done this in six weeks.

"We don't know for sure why he keeps doing this but we need to find out.

"Twice he has gone to Manchester and slept rough there.

"On one occasion, he even got a job there before being found and sent back home.

"We have been to the areas around Piccadilly he told us he went to last time but nobody seems to know anything about him.

"We will be going back to look for him because we are getting worried now."

Mr Hunneybell, who has three children, added: "We just want him to come home and stop wasting police time."

Gary is 5ft 8in tall and slim with a pale complexion. At the time he disappeared, he was wearing a dark blue fleece jacket, dark blue jeans and brown boots. He was also carrying a red Reebok rucksack.

Anyone with any information is urged to call Accrington Police on 01254 353735.