Police are searching for a man who escaped from a prison in Buckinghamshire on Sunday.

It is not known how 30-year-old Ross Underwood – who is serving a seven-year sentence for robbery – escaped and police are warning residents not to approach him and to call officers if he is seen.

Underwood has connections to Northamptonshire and Leeds and was last seen at HMP Springhill in Grendon Underwood at role call at 8am on Sunday, May 24. Details about his escape from prison have only been made public by Thames Valley Police today.

He is white, well built with green eyes and short cropped hair and speaks with a Midlands accent. He had a change of clothes with him.

Det Insp Joe Banfield of Aylesbury police station said: “We are keen to speak to anyone who may know the whereabouts of this man and can provide us with information about his movements.

“I would advise anyone who sees him, not to approach him directly but to call police immediately. Thames Valley Police is currently working together with HM Prison Service to ensure the return of Underwood to lawful custody.

“I would like also like to remind people that it is a criminal offence to harbour an absconded prisoner and anyone found doing so is also risking arrest.”

Anyone with information about the location of Underwood should contact police on 101, or call 999 in an emergency.

Alternatively, speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.