Search continues for missing prisoner last seen in Ayrshire town

A prisoner who failed to return to HMP Castle Huntly from an approved visit earlier this week was last seen getting off a bus in an Ayrshire town, police have said.

James Fitzpatrick was reported missing to police on Tuesday December 30 after failing to turn up at the open prison near Dundee.

Police Scotland have said “extensive inquiries and searches are ongoing to trace him”.

Fitzpatrick has connections with Ayrshire and was seen in Irvine town centre at about 11.30am on Monday December 29, where he boarded the number 11 Stagecoach bus headed for Ardrossan.

Police said he got off the bus at noon on Main Street in Stevenston, heading towards New Street.

He has not been seen since.

The 36-year-old is described as being white, about 5ft 8in tall, with a stocky build and short brown hair.

When last seen he was wearing a black Nike tracksuit with white stripes down the arms and legs and carrying a yellow JD Sports carrier bag and a large black holdall.

Police Scotland said: “Members of the public are advised not to approach him if they see him, but to contact police.

“Anyone with any information is asked to contact 999, quoting reference 2717 of Monday December 29.

“Alternatively contact Crimestoppers through 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.”