Authorities have issued a stark warning to the public to “not approach” an escaped prisoner who slipped away following hospital treatment.

Jonathan Windsor, 31, managed to elude guards and “escaped lawful custody” during an escort back from Salford Royal Hospital. The manhunt for the HMP Forest Bank inmate, housed in a Category B facility in Salford, Greater Manchester, is intensifying.

A police helicopter has been spotted hovering above the city as locals report that a prisoner made a dash from the hospital “in a grey top and handcuffs”.

A resident said: “A neighbour said the police had spoken to them and asked them if they had seen anything, as a prisoner had escaped wearing a grey top and still in handcuffs.

“There were police cars and and motorbikes everywhere and they were checking all the roads near Wilton Road and then checking the field at De La Salle.”

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has cautioned the community against approaching the fugitive and to report any sightings without delay. Windsor reportedly has connections throughout the north west and south Manchester, reports the Mirror.

The search operation is extensive, with officers in uniform conducting door-to-door searches spanning from Salford to Sale, roughly six miles distant.

A spokesperson for HMP Forest Bank told the Manchester Evening News: “We are aware of an incident involving an HMP Forest Bank prisoner who was under escort at a local hospital.

“We are working closely with Greater Manchester Police and cannot comment further at this time.”

GMP Salford posted on social media: “Police are appealing for the public’s help to trace Jonathan Windsor (31/10/1992) who is wanted having escaped lawful custody while being escorted by prison staff. Windsor is known to have links across the North West, including South Manchester.”

The public is advised not to approach Windsor. If anyone sees him, they should call 0161 856 5049 or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, quoting the log number 1687 of 07/10/24.