'Dangerous' Convicted Murderer Absconds

Police have made an urgent public appeal for help locating a convicted murderer who has breached his release licence.

53-year-old William Kerr, who was jailed for life for murder in 1998 before being released on licence on 23 January, is wanted for emergency recall to prison.

Detectives have described Kerr as "dangerous" and warned the public not to approach him.

North Yorkshire Police were asked for help locating Kerr after the National Offender Management service said he had absconded from approved premises in Hull.

He is known to have links in Humberside, West Yorkshire and London, but his current whereabouts are not known.

Detective Inspector Eamonn Clarke said: "To assist our already extensive efforts to trace William Kerr, I am urging people to keep an eye out for the man in the photographs.

"We ask that you do not approach Kerr, as he is considered dangerous. You should contact the police straight away on 999 and officers will be dispatched to arrest him or investigate the sighting."

The police have also made a direct appeal to Kerr, saying: "William, you know you have breached your licence conditions, and by continuing to do so you are only making things worse. It is now time to do the right thing and hand yourself in to the police."

:: Anyone with information about William Kerr is urged to dial 999 to pass details to North Yorkshire Police, or contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, quoting North Yorkshire Police reference number 12150049525.