POLICE have launched a man-hunt for a 'dangerous' High Wycombe man who has gone on the run from prison.

Andrew Francis absconded from Spring Hill, an open prison near Aylesbury, where he was serving a five-year prison term for a number of burglaries, on Thursday, February 11, police announced today.

Police have received reported sightings of the 33-year-old in High Wycombe and are now appealing to the public for help in tracing him.

Chief Inspector Colin Seaton said he is “categorised prolific offender” with a “record of violence”.

Ch Insp Seaton added that he feared Francis may commit another crime.

He said: “Thames Valley Police is keen to trace Francis and return him to prison.

“We are concerned he may become violent if he is confronted, as he has been violent towards officers in the past.

"Members of the public should not approach him but call the police.

“Francis does have warnings for drugs and is believed to have been a heroin addict before going into prison.

“We have made more than 30 arrest attempts which were unsuccessful. We are now appealing to the public for their help in tracing him.”

The Ministry of Justice confirmed it has passed the matter into police hands.

Anyone with any information about Francis’ whereabouts should contact Det Sgt Robin Hughes on 0845 8 505 505 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.