Police have warned people not to approach a missing man they are "urgently" trying to find as part of an investigation into "serious crimes of violence".

A warrant has been issued for the arrest of William Edwards, 45, known as Billy.

Edwards, from Hamilton, South Lanarkshire, is described as white, 5ft 7in tall, with brown hair and blue eyes.

He has numerous tattoos on his left arm with the names Billy, Dylan, Lesley and Zac and another with a heart and devil design.

Police Scotland has released an image of Edwards and has asked the public to contact them straight away if they see him or have any information about where he is.

However, people have been warned not to approach him if they recognise him.

A statement said: "Police Scotland is asking the public for their help in tracing William Edwards. Anyone who recognises him is asked not to approach him, but to contact the police urgently.

"Police Scotland can be contacted at Incident Room at East Kilbride on 01355 564 018 via 101, or alternatively, through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where information can be provided anonymously.