A CONVICT with connections to Cumbria has absconded from a Scottish prison. 

Police Scotland is appealing for any information that could help to trace 33-year-old Martin Jackson, a prisoner who has absconded from HMP Castle Huntly near Perth.

He was reported missing to police around 6.30pm on Wednesday, August 28.

It is believed Martin has connections in both Ayr and Cumbria, and the public are being asked not to approach him.

He is described as being white, of medium build and around 5ft 10ins tall. He is bald with red facial hair.

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He was last known to be wearing a grey top and bottoms with a dark jacket. He may have with him a grey backpack, white plastic bag and black baseball cap.

Any sightings or information can be passed to officers via 101, quoting reference 3722 of August 28.

Anyone wishing to provide information anonymously can do so through the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Castle Huntly is described as 'Scotland's only open prison', accommodating a capacity of 284 'low supervision' adult male prisoners from any local authority area.