POLICE are making a direct appeal to an escaped prisoner facing a rape charge to hand himself in.

Jack McRae, aged 23, was at a preliminary hearing for the trial at Southampton Crown Court yesterday when he fled.

As reported by Daily Echo online, McRae was transported from prison by guards from GEOAmey – the firm responsible for delivering prison escort and custody services across the county.

Officers from a number of units including Response and Patrol, Neighbourhood Policing Teams, the Force Support Unit and CID have been searching for him throughout the night and today.

Now they have made a direct plea to McRae to hand himself in.

Acting detective inspector Shula Williamson said: “I would like to appeal directly to Jack to come forward. We will find you, so make it easier on yourself and hand yourself in now.

“We believe he is still in the Southampton area, so we are also appealing for members of the community to keep a look out and report any sightings to us.

“We would like to reassure people that we do not believe he is a danger to the general public and we are doing all we can to find him.

“We would however advise people not to approach him if they see him, but to call us immediately on 999 with any sightings or information.

“I would also like to remind people that anyone helping him hide from officers could find themselves facing criminal charges.

"If this is you, please think about that and tell us where he is.”

He is white, of a proportionate build and about 5ft 10ins tall. He has brown hair and was last seen wearing a grey t-shirt and dark trousers with a belt.

His facial hair may now be different from that in the photos that have been released.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 999 or alternatively call the charity Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111, where information can be left anonymously.