A convicted Warwickshire murderer is on the run after breaking out of prison on New Year's Day.

Matthew Armstrong and Daniel Washbourne both escaped from HMP Leyhill between 5-8pm on Thursday 1 January. 

Armstrong was in the South Gloucestershire prisoner after being found guilty of murder during a robbery in the late 2000's.

The 35-year-old is described as white, male, about 5ft 9ins, with ginger hair and scars on his forehead.  

He was last seen wearing a burgundy/orange coat, grey cap, grey tracksuit suit bottoms with blue on the side, and black boots.  

Armstrong still has known links to Warwickshire. 

Washbourne, 40, has links to Herefordshire and has convictions for violence and false imprisonment. 

A third man who is suspected of absconding at the same time was arrested by Avon and Somerset Police in Bristol earlier today. 

HMP Leyhill reported the absconders on Thursday evening and officers attended the location at about 9.45pm to begin carrying out enquiries. 

CCTV footage showing what the men were wearing on New Year's Day has been obtained, and police are releasing this today as part of a public appeal for information. 

Avon and Somerset Police said in a statement: "Urgent actions have already been completed, including circulating the men as wanted via national police systems. Intelligence work to trace the men's movements is ongoing. 

"Address checks have been made out-of-force too and proved negative so far. 

"As a precaution, we would advise any members of the public who see the two men to not approach them."