Last updated at 11:39, Monday, 19 March 2012

A convicted killer who has gone on the run may be in Cumbria, police revealed.

Lester Jackson, 43, was jailed in 1991 for a murder in London and left HMP Kirkham in Lancashire to attend a work placement in St Annes but did not turn up. He has not been seen since.

Detective Chief Inspector Brian Quinn said he did not believe the public were at risk but “it is important that he is returned to custody as soon as possible”.

Jackson is described as white, 6ft 1in tall, of slim build, with short brown hair and green eyes.

Mr Quinn said that he could be in the St Annes or Blackpool areas or Cumbria, Hertfordshire or London.

He said: “I would appeal to anyone who knows where Lester Jackson is to come forward and contact the police immediately. I would reassure the public that the relevant authorities carry out numerous checks on people prior to them being placed and that we have a team of officers searching for Jackson. At this stage, I do not believe that members of the public are at risk”

Any sightings should be reported to police on 101 or Crimestoppers – 0800 555 111.

First published at 11:29, Monday, 19 March 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk