A WILTSHIRE soldier has gone absent without leave, taking an army issue rifle with him.

Corporal Adam Dunne, 32, a soldier based at Bulford Barracks, disappeared with the rifle on Wednesday, September 18.

Army officials said he does not pose a risk to the public but urged anyone spotting the soldier to contact police immediately.

A Wiltshire police spokesman confirmed the disappearance of Cpl Dunne but said everything was being done to locate the solider.

He said: "We wish to emphasise that we do not believe he poses any threat to the general public but we are becoming more concerned for his welfare as time passes."

Officers based at Bulford camp said they were concerned about the soldier who stole a rifle before disappearing onto Salisbury Plain.

Officers from Wiltshire Constabulary are working closely with the Ministry of Defence Police and Military Police to find the AWOL corporal.

If anyone spots Cpl Dunne or his maroon Ford Ka, registration R392 FNG, they should contact police.

Cpl Dunne is described as white, 6ft 1in tall, with short brown hair, a fair complexion and dark blue eyes.