Police urge residents to dial 999 following reports that escaped rapist Paul Marshall was spotted in Worksop

Marshall, a convicted sex offender serving a life sentence for rape and wounding with intent, absconded from HMP North Sea Camp in Lincolnshire last month.

Following sightings of the offender in Mansfield and Doncaster in recent days, many residents in Worksop took to social media to say that Marshall had been spotted in the Thievesdale area on Sunday evening.

Lincolnshire Police could not confirm at this time whether the sightings were genuine but a spokesperson said that if anyone does see the 53-year-old, it is essential that they do not approach him as he is considered dangerous and to dial 999 immediately.

The force has confirmed that CCTV footage taken in Doncaster and released three days ago is Marshall, but with numerous sightings the offender remains at large at this time.

The spokesperson added that, whilst the investigation is being led by Lincolnshire Police, due to sightings over three counties, if he is spotted in Nottinghamshire, then a 999 call will go through to Nottinghamshire Police to respond to.

"We are the investigating force as Marshall failed to return to a prison in Lincolnshire,” the spokesperson said. “But it’s imperative that if any members of the public spot him, they call 999 immediately and don’t go near him. This is not a matter for 101. Please call 999 immediately.”

The incident number to quote is 298 of 22/11/2022.