A BURGLAR is being hunted by police in York to be returned to prison.

Anthony Vipas, 32, is wanted after being recalled to prison for breaching the terms of his release licence.

Vipas, of Pottery Lane in Heworth, was released from custody on November 20, after a three-year sentence for burglary.

Vipas was one of three burglars caught red-handed as they left the Fenwick store in the Coppergate Centre after a raid in 2011, when they took clothes and cosmetics worth £6,342.

A North Yorkshire Police spokesman said: "Since his release he has displayed poor behaviour and has allegedly committed a further offence meaning he must return to prison.

"Officers have been making enquiries in and around York in an effort to locate Vipas and are urging the public to report any sightings of him."

Vipas is described as white, around 6ft 1in tall, with a slim build, blue eyes and light brown hair.

Detective Inspector Graeme Wright, of York Police, said: “Anthony Vipas is well aware that he is in breach of his prison release licence and has managed to avoid returning to custody so far.

“However, officers are actively looking for him at addresses in York on a daily basis and they will continue knocking on doors until they find him.

“I am appealing to anyone with information about Vipas’ whereabouts to contact the police or Crimestoppers as soon as possible.”

Anyone who can help is asked to phone the Force Control Room on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.