A prisoner is on the run after he “overpowered” and “evaded” escort officers as he fled from a prison van this morning prompting the police to launch an urgent manhunt. Jamie Cooper, 33, escaped the prison van on the M55 motorway near junction two by Catforth, Preston, at about 8.54am this morning, Lancashire Police said.

Police received a report of the escape at about 8.54am on Wednesday, the force said. Cooper fled the GEOAmey prison van, which was providing the transportation service, after it pulled over to deal with an “onboard medical emergency”. The vehicle was taking Cooper and other inmates to Lancaster Magistrates Court. GEOAmey said: “The detained person involved in this emergency then overpowered and evaded the escort officers and escaped from the vehicle. Lancashire Police have been informed and are currently searching for the escaped prisoner.”

Members of the public have been warned to not approach Cooper from Blackpool who is 5ft 7in, of a medium build with short, cropped hair and is thought to be wearing a blue coat, blue jeans and black trainers.

Lancashire Police acknowledged the concerning situation but reassured residents that “incidents like these are extremely rare”.

The force have warned members of the public to not approach him but instead call 999.

Lancashire Police said in a statement: “We know that this may be concerning to hear about, but we want to reassure you that incidents like these are extremely rare in Lancashire and it is something we are taking incredibly seriously.

“Searches and an investigation are ongoing, and you will see an increase in our officers in the area as they continue their enquiries.”

Cooper has links to Blackpool and Bolton, the force added.

Police have said anyone who sees Cooper should not approach him but call 999 immediately.

Anyone with information can call 101 quoting log 0237 of March 19.