POLICE searching for missing prisoner Alan Giles are now concentrating their investigation on Stratford-upon-Avon following a number of reported sightings in the area.

Detectives are working with local officers to follow up leads, and are searching key locations where Giles may be hiding.

They are also distributing 'wanted' posters featuring a new photograph of Giles who absconded from HMP Hewell near Redditch last Monday, October 28.

The 56-year-old is serving two life sentences for the murder and kidnap of 16-year-old Quinton student Kevin Ricketts in 1995.

He is described as white, 5 ft 9 inches in height and of proportionate build, with short grey hair and blue eyes. He has a scar on the right of his forehead and another small one by his left eye. He has tattoos of an eagle on his back and a swallow, shark and flower on his left arm.

When he left the prison he was believed to be wearing a grey Rockport sweater, blue jeans and white Asics trainers but may have changed his clothing.

Police believe that Giles may have been sleeping rough and therefore may be in a dishevelled state.

Detective Inspector Steve Tonks said: "We have moved our search to the Stratford area following a number of reported sightings, but so far have not been able to locate Giles. I would like to thank all those people who have contacted us so far, and urge anyone who thinks they see him to call 999 immediately. Do not approach him."