POLICE were today still hunting a dangerous prisoner who fled from a prison van near Salford Priors a week ago.

Members of the public have been warned not to approach 28-year-old Carl Townsend but to dial 999 immediately if they spot him.

Ports and airports were alerted and neighbouring police forces were also contacted.

Townsend, who was serving a four-year sentence for aggravated burglary was travelling in a prison van between Oversley Mill and Salford Priors shortly before 11am.

Warwickshire police said he tricked a guard into opening his cell door and then jumped from the vehicle and over an embankment towards Stratford.

The guard was not hurt during the escape, police said later. South Warwickshire police launched a huge manhunt in the area last Thursday but were unable to find any trace of him. Townsend, who comes from Northamptonshire, is described as white with a stocky, muscular build. He has short dark brown hair. When he escaped, he was wearing a white t-shirt with short sleeves and a track suit.

Shortly before absconding he took off a plaster-type bandage which was protecting a broken arm.

Police said they were unable to say whether he had replaced this after fleeing the scene.

Police advised members of the public not to challenge Townsend but to contact them by calling 999.