A PRISONER with links to Dudley and Sandwell has absconded from HMP Hewell in Worcestershire.

Sam Branigan, 27, who has been serving an eight-year sentence for burglary and assault offences, left the prison, near Redditch, on October 10.

He is described as having a heavy build, with brown eyes and short black hair.

He has surgical scars on his left hand and left wrist.

Branigan has links to the Sandwell and Dudley area of the West Midlands

PC Matthew, Whitehouse from West Mercia Police, said: "We are asking for the public's help to find Sam Branigan, and would ask anyone who has seen him or has any information on his whereabouts to please call 101."

Anyone who has seen Branigan is being asked to call West Mercia Police on 101 quoting reference 273s of 10 October 2018.

Information can also be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online via crimestoppers-uk.org.