On-the-run kidnapper may still be in Bristol region as police hunt is stepped up

A man who absconded from Leyhill open prison on June 1 is still on the run from police as a dedicated team has been set up to collate all reported sightings in a bid to catch him.

Anyone who sees Sean Phipps is urged to call 999 immediately. Police say Phipps, 51, may still be in the greater Bristol area, including North Somerset or South Gloucestershire.

He is described as a white man about 6ft 2ins tall and slim. He failed to return to prison on Wednesday 1 June having been released from Leyhill on a temporary licence in Bristol.

Police say Phipp’s known to walk or hitch-hike over long distances and to steal bicycles for transport.

He has an interest in living “off-grid” and may camp out and forage in rural areas, say police who add he might approach people to ask for water or casual labouring work. Phipps is originally from Leicestershire and has convictions for kidnap and rape.

He has previously handed himself in to the police when wanted. Anyone who has information should call 101 or use Avon and Somerset Police’s dedicated online form https://www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/forms/wsp to send a message straight to detectives.