'Do not approach': prison escape pair still on the run

A convicted attempted murderer and his suspected cell mate remain on the run more than a day after an audacious prison escape.

Police have today renewed their appeal for help in finding James Whitlock, 31, and Matthew Baker, 28.

They are warning the public not to approach the pair, who they say could become violent.

Baker, 28, was found guilty of attempted murder two weeks ago having stabbed a man in Dagenham, east London, after a dispute.

He was due to be sentenced on Friday 11 November.

Whitlock, 31, was on remand having been charged with conspiracy to burgle in relation to 19 thefts from cash machines in the south-east of England between December 2015 and August 2016.

The pair reportedly used diamond-tipped cutters to break through cell bars at Pentonville prison in north London and stuffed their beds with pillows in the shape of bodies to fool prison staff.

Once they broke out of their cell, they are said to have scaled the perimeter wall at the prison.

Last month inmate Jamal Mahmoud, 21, died after being stabbed at the category B Victorian jail in an attack which left two others injured.

Steve Gillan, general secretary of the Prison Officers Association, said the escapes came after years of under-investment and staff cuts.

Whitlock is described as a white man of slim build and he has the word "Tracy" tattooed on his torso.

Baker is described as a white man with ginger hair.

Detectives say they do not know what clothing either had on when they escaped.

• Anyone with information is asked to call 999 and to not approach either man as they could become violent, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.