POLICE are searching for Michael William Powell, who is wanted for recall to prison.

Powell, 30, was sentenced to five years imprisonment for robbery in December 2011, but released last month on licence. Police said his behaviour since being released was poor, and he is now wanted for recall.

Powell, who lived in York, is white, 6ft tall, with a medium build and dark brown hair. Officers believe he has links in the Northampton area.

Detective Inspector Graeme Wright, of York CID, said: "Michael, if you see or hear this appeal, my advice is simply hand yourself in. We are going to catch you and return you to custody. By remaining at large you are only delaying the inevitable and making matters worse for yourself.

"Officers have already visited a number of addresses to which Powell is believed to have links. These visits will continue until he is back in custody. If you are shielding Powell from the police, you need to know that you are not helping him and may even be committing offences yourself. If this is the case, you can expect to be arrested and charged."

Anyone with information or who has seen Powell should phone North Yorkshire Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.