Prisoner Could Be In Lanarkshire

5 August 2016, 16:17 | Updated: 5 August 2016, 16:18

Police say they're following a positive line of inquiry in their hunt for a prisoner who escaped during a hospital visit.

Officers are primarily focusing their search for Anthony Ferrie on the west of Scotland.

Ferrie, an inmate from Addiewell prison in West Lothian, remains at large after fleeing from the grounds of St John's Hospital in Livingston on Thursday lunchtime.

Private security firm G4S said one of its prison custody officers was left unconscious while another suffered an arm injury during the incident at about 1pm.

Searches are continuing for the 33 year old, who has links to Bellshill and Motherwell, and police are appealing for information from the public on his whereabouts.

Ferrie is described as white, about 6ft and slim. He was wearing a blue sweater, jeans and trainers.

Detective Inspector Paul Batten said: ''Ferrie is from Bellshill and whilst we are carrying out some inquiries in West Lothian, most of our work is happening in Lanarkshire.

''The investigation is using both local and national Police Scotland resources, and liaison with partners, to try to locate Ferrie as quickly as possible and return him to custody.

''I would urge anyone who may know of his whereabouts to contact police immediately.''

Members of the public have been advised not to approach Ferrie but to contact police on 101.

Information can also be provided anonymously through the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.