A MANHUNT has been launched in Hove after a suspected burglar fled courtroom during his hearing.

Dozens of officers are searching for wanted man Jack Tyler, who was last seen at Hove Crown Court at a hearing this afternoon.

Officers are urgently looking for him as he is believed to have suffered a serious ankle injury that requires medical attention.

Tyler, 28, was arrested by police in August following an appeal for information on his whereabouts.

He was charged with burglary and affray, and remanded in custody to appear before Hove Crown Court on September 8.

However during the hearing, Tyler escaped from court custody and fled from the courtroom.

Police were called to attend and officers are carrying out extensive searches in the vicinity.

He is 5ft 4in in height, of stocky build with dark, shaved hair.

He was wearing a dark zipped-up jumper, dark jogging bottoms and one blue and white trainer.

He is known to have links to the Hastings area.

A spokesman from Sussex Police said: "Anyone who sees him or has any information as to his whereabouts is asked to dial 999 quoting serial 611 of 08/09."