Police have had a positive response to a Crimewatch appeal regarding the whereabouts of a man named in connection with the rape of a teenage girl who may be busking his way around the west country.

Thomas Anthony Fleet, 22, is now believed to be living in southern England and is wanted in relation to an incident that happened in Shropshire in October last year (2009).

A public appeal for information for his whereabouts featured on the BBC Crimewatch programme on December  14th and a number of calls with information have been received as a result.

Detective Inspector Sarah Wagstaff, of West Mercia Police, said: "We have had quite a few calls overnight and I would like to thank those people for getting in touch.

"As a result of information received, police are now following up a number of new and positive lines of enquiry to trace Mr Fleet.

"If anyone else recognises Mr Fleet, who is believed to be living rough and travelling around the country, particularly the south, please could they contact police on 0300 333 3000 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

"We believe he is living rough, travelling around the country and using a cover story that he is hiding from police over a burglary. However, we have information which suggests he is currently in the south of the country,

She added he also goes by the name of Tom or Ant,  and is making his way around by various means, using public transport, hitch-hiking and by foot, raising money through busking, playing an acoustic guitar and a penny whistle.

He described as white, 5ft 4ins tall with straight brown hair, which was slightly longer than in the photo when last seen. He could also now have a beard which may be shaped into a goatee style.

He may also be carrying a distinctive Peter Storm 75-litre green and black rucksack, with pockets at the back and sides.