Gary Rootham: Manhunt for prisoner on the run as police warn public not to approach him

A manhunt is under way for an inmate who has fled from a Gloucestershire prison, with police warning the public not to approach him.

Gary Rootham absconded from HMP Leyhill where he was serving sentences for offences including robbery and burglary, Avon and Somerset Police said.

He was last seen at about 4.50pm on Friday by prison staff wearing a dark Nike polo shirt, dark jogging bottoms and black trainers with white soles.

The last sighting of Rootham was captured on CCTV.

“If you see Rootham, please don’t approach,” an Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson said.

The wanted prisoner is around 5ft 11ins, has short dark brown hair and is usually clean shaven, police say. He has links to Reading and Cornwall.

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Police have urged anyone with information about Rootham’s whereabouts to call 999.