A major manhunt was launched yesterday following the escape of a man in custody at the hospital.

Officers have been carrying out a search for wanted man Anthony Arnold.

The 22-year-old escaped lawful custody on Thursday.

Here’s everything we know so far.

What happened?

Officers descended upon Hollybrook Cemetery in Southampton on Thursday.

This followed Anthony Arnold escaping custody at Southampton General Hospital just after 11.20am.

Officers searched the cemetery and surrounding roads, including Olive Road and Vine Road, in pursuit of Arnold.

Who is Anthony Arnold?

Daily Echo:

Anthony Arnold, a 22-year-old from the city, was arrested on suspicion of robbery, criminal damage and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

He was at the hospital when he escaped custody.

He is 5ft11in tall, white, slim build, with very short blonde hair and blue eyes.

He was last seen wearing a black t-shirt with yellow shoulders, grey jogging bottoms and white socks.

READ MORE: Suspected robber, 22, escapes custody - Major hunt underway

A police spokesperson said: "If anyone has any information about his whereabouts or has seen him, please do not approach him but call 999 quoting reference 44230322138.

"We would like to remind people that anyone found to be harbouring Arnold to deliberately obstruct our attempts to locate him may be committing an offence and be liable for arrest and prosecution themselves."

‘Police wanted to keep the area clear’

Daily Echo:

People in the area at the time spoke of their shock at the unfolding events.

Lyle Hackett was tending a grave in Hollybrook Cemetery on Thursday.

He said: "Officers said they were looking for someone from the hospital and were waiting for a helicopter. They asked us to go back to our car because they wanted to keep the area clear.

"They said they would let us know when it was OK to go back and they did, but it was a good half an hour."

Lisa Parker was visiting her mum, who lives on Vine Road, when officers were carrying out enquiries.

She said: “[Police] have been knocking on doors along the end of the road. They haven’t come to our door as of yet.

"We’ve had the helicopter up here. It was a surprise. A police van went up and down.

"It is worrying us at the moment, my mum lives here and it worries me because she’s 84."

What do I do if I see Arnold?

If you see Arnold or have any information as to his whereabouts do not approach him.

Instead, call 999 quoting reference 44230322138.