Andrew Farndon, 26, has longer hair and a goatee beard at present. He escpaed from prison last night.

A NATIONWIDE hunt has been launched after a prisoner escaped after prison guards were threatened at gunpoint at a Suffolk hospital last night (Wednesday).

Andrew Farndon, 26, was taken to West Suffolk Hospital in Bury St Edmunds, with a shoulder wound from an earlier incident at HMP Highpoint, near Newmarket, shortly before 7pm yesterday but his escort was threatened when they arrived.

Farndon was serving an indefinite prison sentence, with a minimum of three years before being considered for parole, after being sentenced at Coventry Crown Court in 2007 for GBH with intent, dangerous driving and aggravated vehicle taking.

Officers believe Farndon and his accomplice, a man described as white, in his 40s, around 5ft 8ins tall, of stocky build, with possibly a Scottish accent, have left Suffolk but are still making enquiries in the county.

Police are continuing to advise members of the public not to approach either of the men but to call officers straight away.

INFORMATION: Officers are asking anyone with information about where Farndon is now to call Suffolk Police, or their nearest police station, as soon as possible - using 999 if necessary for sightings or 101 to pass on information.