A CONVICT jailed for attempted rape has escaped from prison.

Police have warned the public not to approach 36-year-old Daniel Hawkins, who has links to Oxford, Abingdon and Wallingford.

Hawkins, known as Danny, absconded from HMP Leyhill in Gloucestershire alongside 29-year-old prisoner Robert Horan.

The pair were last seen at 4.50pm on Tuesday, and both Avon and Somerset Police and Thames Valley Police have appealed for sightings.

Police have urged anyone who sees either man to not approach them, but to call 999 and quote reference number 5218076492. 

Hawkins was serving an indeterminate sentence for attempted rape and theft.

He is described as white, 6ft 1in, of medium build, with black hair and a beard and green eyes.

Horan was serving an indeterminate sentence for offences including sexual assault, robbery and burglary.

He is described as white, 5ft 10ins, of medium build, with light hair and green eyes with a West Midlands accent.

HMP Leyhill is a Category D open prison, meaning inmates are permitted to come and go - but only with official approval and at certain times.