Police have launched a manhunt after a convicted robber has absconded from jail.
Ian Betton is serving a sentence for robbery and driving offences at HMP Leyhill.
UPDATE: Ian Betton was arrested on January 24.
But this afternoon, a spokesman from Avon and Somerset Police confirmed he absconded from the South Gloucestershire open prison.
He was reported missing at about 12.30pm today (Thursday) and was last seen by staff at 6am this morning.
However, there are unconfirmed reports he was spotted in the Rangeworthy area two hours later.
A force spokesperson said: "He is described as a white man, aged 44 years, 5ft 10ins tall of medium build. He has brown hair and brown eyes and a goatee-style beard.
"He was sentenced for robbery and driving offences.
"Ian Betton has links with West Mercia and it is possible he may be making his way through South Gloucestershire.
"Anyone spotting him is advised not to approach him but call 999, quoting 5220017900."
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