A ROBBER is on the run from prison after escaping while being taken to hospital.

Jamie Halifax, 25, had been taken to Royal Sussex County Hospital for medical treatment but escaped at around 12.40am today.

His jail sentence was for robberies committed this year, The Argus understands.

Police searched the area around the hospital in Eastern Road, Brighton, after being told of his escape from the Prison Service.

Police are warning members of the public not to approach Halifax if they see him, but to call Sussex Police on 101 with reference 79/27.

He is described as a white male, five foot eight, of slim build, with short brown hair.