A MAJOR search has been launched for a school boy who has been missing since Friday.

Jason Phillips, 13, was last seen in the town centre of Cumnock at around 3pm. When he did not return home, his family contacted police and reported him missing.

Police Scotland said Jason has been missing before but given his age, it’s imperative they locate him, and make sure he is safe and well.

He is white, around 5 ft 4 inches in height, with a slim build, short fair hair, blue eyes and has braces on his teeth. When last seen, he was wearing a white polo top and black trousers. He is also wearing a grey hooded top with the hood up. Officers believe he is carrying a grey and black Adidas bag.

Extensive enquiries are underway with officers speaking to his family and friends for any indication as to where he may be. However, all attempts to trace him have so far proved unsuccessful.

In the past, Jason has been known to visit Muirkirk village and the Netherthird area of Cumnock.

Sergeant Claire Boyd said: “We are extremely concerned for Jason. His family and friends are understandably upset and everyone just wants to know he is safe and well. We have been checking CCCTV footage from in and around the town for any further information which could assist us. If anyone has seen Jason or has any information as to his whereabouts, please do contact us.”

Anyone with information is asked to call officers at Cumnock Police Station via 101, quoting incident number 3019 of Friday 14 September 2018.