A MURDER suspect could be in Somerset, police believe.

West Midlands Police have issued an appeal to help trace James Atherley.

A reward of up to £5,000 has been put up for any information leading to the arrest of James Atherley, a key suspect wanted in connection with the murder of Callum Lees.

Callum was stabbed in the neck following what police believe to be a dispute at a house party in Hopwas Grove on Sunday, August 6.

He was found collapsed in nearby Haselour Road by a member of the public and later died in hospital.

West Midlands Police Detective Inspector Jim Munro urged anyone with information on James Atherley’s whereabouts to get in touch.

He said: "Our inquiries lead us to believe that James Atherley is no longer in the West Midlands and may have links to Weston-super-Mare.

“If anyone knows where he is, or has seen him in the last few days, I’d urge them to call us immediately.

“They can call me on the 101 number or speak to the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously; all information will be treated with the utmost confidence."

Callum’s family have described him as “a beautiful, caring, kind soul who was much loved".

A statement released on behalf of the family added: “Anyone who knew Callum knew he was a genuine, loving, caring person who always wanted to give to others.

“He was really hard working and worked with his Dad six days a week.

“He always made sure that he looked after people and only a few days before he died, he helped a stranger he met in the street get home safely.

“He was a really sensitive boy and when he was upset he would always phone his mom, and said she always made him feel better.

“Every morning we wake up and we realise our son has gone Callum we’re never going to see him again.

"The only thing that keeps us going is knowing that we have to be there for our children and family, so we’ve got to get through this but our lives will never be the same again.

“To the person that has taken Callum from us, please do the right thing and give yourself up.

"We need some sense of closure. Please allow us to bury our boy.

"If there are any family or friends out there who have any information and know anything or know of James Atherley’s whereabouts, please, please do the right thing and come forward.”

Three men aged 21, 20 and 18 arrested in connection with the stabbing have been bailed while enquiries progress.

Anyone with information is urged to contact DI Munro’s team on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555111.

A reward of up to £5,000 is available for information that leads to the arrest of James Atherley.