POLICE have launched a manhunt for two prisoners who have escaped from prison in Cheshire.

Prison officials at Thorn Cross open prison, Warrington, noticed the two men were missing at around 10.30 am on Tuesday, May 20.

Both men originate from the Liverpool area. Members of the public are advised not to approach either man if they see them, but should contact police straight away.

Anthony Peloe, 43, was convicted of possession of firearms with intent to commit harm on December 14 2005 and sentenced to three years.

He is described as white 5ft 8ins tall, and of proportionate build.

He has brown hair and blue eyes. He may be wearing green prison issue trousers.

John Arnold, 30, was convicted of robbery on May 8 2006. He was sentenced to two years imprisonment.

He is described as white, around 5ft 11ins tall and of slim build. He has brown hair and brown eyes. He may also be wearing prison issue green trousers.

Police are appealing to anybody who may have seen the two men, since 10.30am on Tuesday morning, or have any information regarding their current whereabouts, to make contact using the police non-emergency number 101, quoting incident 306 of 20/05/2014.

A police spokesman said: “Although both men have been risk assessed for open conditions, police are advising as a precaution not to approach them. Anyone who sees them is advised to immediately ring 999.”

Supt Martin Cleworth of Warrington police said, "Cheshire Police are making every effort to locate these two men including liaising with colleagues in other forces.

“They may be travelling together or separately. My advice to any member of the public who sees them is not to approach them, but to immediately ring police on 999.

“I would also ask members of the public to be mindful that the men remain outstanding, and despite the hot weather, be cautious about leaving your house or car insecure with an open window. If you have any concerns at all, contact your local police station.”