A sex offender has escaped from a Gloucester prison.

Police have warned people not to approach Warrington's Daniel Thompson, who has absconded from HMP Leyhill.

The 34-year-old may be using the name "Gavin Barry", Warrington Police said.

A spokesman for Avon and Somerset Police said in a statement on Facebook: "We’re appealing for your help to find an absconder from HMP Leyhill in South Gloucestershire.

"Daniel Thompson, aged 34, failed to appear at roll call at 4.45pm. He was last seen at the 11.45am roll call.

"He has just completed a 10 year sentence for rape in Warrington and was on recall to prison for breaching a court order.

"Daniel Thompson is a white man, 5ft 11ins tall of slim build with dark coloured short hair, brown eyes and is clean shaven.

"He has a tattoo on the right side of his neck. He was wearing a dark blue tracksuit when last seen.

"He has links to Chester, Warrington and Darlington and may use the name of Gavin Barry.

"You are advised not to approach him if you see him but call 999."

Anyone who sees him is asked to call 999 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 and quote IML 484890.