An urgent manhunt has been issued after a prisoner escaped and is on the run, with police warning the public not to approach him.

Gary Rootham, 42, absconded from HMP Leyhill, in South Gloucestershire on Friday.

He was serving sentences for matters including driving, robbery and burglary.

The 42-year-old was last seen by prison staff at around 4.50pm wearing a dark Nike polo shirt, jogging bottoms and black trainers with white soles.

Gary Rootham escaped from HMP Leyhill on Friday afternoonAvon and Somerset Police

He is about 5ft 11ins, has short dark brown hair and is usually clean shaven.

He has links to Reading and Cornwall.

An Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson said: "If you see Rootham, please don't approach."

The force has urged anyone with information about Rootham's whereabouts to call 999.