AN ESCAPED prisoner is on the run.

Nicholas Ward did not return to Springhill prison after being let out on day release yesterday.

The 36-year-old was meant to return at 6pm last night, on Sunday, but he did not - so police are now appealing for the public's help to find him.

He is described as a white man, of medium build, with short brown hair that is greying.

He has blue eyes, and four piercings in his ears with the initals 'JA' tattooed on his left arm.

His left land has tattoos with dots and cross weapons.

Thames Valley Police have now said anybody who sees him should call 999.

They have warned the public not to approach him.

Springhill prison, in Buckinghamshire, is a category D prison - which means some criminals can be released for the day as part of rehabilitation programmes.

Investigating officer detective contable Kevin Godding of the Force CID based in Reading police station said: "I am appealing to anybody who knows of Nicholas Wards' whereabouts to contact the 24-hour non-emergency number 101, quoting the reference number 43190318245.

"He was due to return to HMP Springhill following day release, but failed to do so.

"If you see him, do not appraoch him but call 999 immediately."