Police searching for a prisoner who escaped custody dressed only in underwear and socks say he may have shaved his beard and head.

Dorset Police are renewing an appeal for information as they carry out “extensive searches” to find Kyle Darren Eglington, 32.

The force said it received a report at 11.12am on Saturday that Eglington had made off from a court prisoner transit van in Hardy Road, Poole, having assaulted security officers.

It was reported that he was only wearing underwear and socks when he fled the van, police added.

Eglington has been described as white, five feet 11 inches tall and of medium build, with dark brown hair and a beard.

Dorset Police said on Sunday that their search continues with the help of a National Police Air Service helicopter and the British Transport Police.

Enquiries have revealed he may have been in the West Howe area of Bournemouth in the early hours, the force said.

Officers believe that Eglington may have shaved his head and beard since he escaped.

He was remanded in custody after being charged with robbery in relation to an incident in Bournemouth on Thursday and appeared at Poole Magistrates’ Court the next day.

Chief Inspector Neil Wright said: “I would like to reassure members of the public that we have a number of officers carrying out searches and other enquiries in a bid to locate Kyle Eglington as soon as possible and return him to lawful custody.

“We believe that he may have changed his appearance significantly and will therefore look different to the latest image we have for him.

“I would urge anyone who sees Kyle, or a man matching the description given, to please report it to us.

“There is nothing at this time to suggest he poses a risk to the general public, however, we would urge people not to approach him and to please dial 999 immediately.”

Dorset Police said anyone who sees Eglington should dial 999 while anyone else with information should call 101 quoting incident number 26:244 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.