A SUSPECTED robber and burglar is on the run after he escaped from court.

Russell Frankland, 40, escaped from security staff at Scarborough Magistrates' Court at about 4.45pm on Thursday, where he had been charged with robbery and burglary and was due to be remanded in custody to appear before York Crown Court.

North Yorkshire Police have urged the public to contact them with any sightings of Frankland, who is white, six feet tall, with a medium build and brown hair. Officers said he may still be in Scarborough, but also has links in Rochdale.

Detective Inspector Paul Healy, of Scarborough CID, said: "Russell, if you see or hear this appeal, I want you to hear this clear message. We are going to catch you and return you to custody. Hand yourself in now, by remaining at large you are only delaying the inevitable and making matters worse for yourself.

"I am also appealing to anyone who sees Frankland to contact the police straight away. If you are helping to shield Frankland from the police, you are not helping him. In fact you may be even committing offences yourself. If this is the case, you face the prospect of arrest and prosecution."

Anyone with information should phone 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.