Police are hunting a convicted murder who has escaped from prison and is thought to be in the Inverness area.

James Casey was jailed in 1991 after being found guilty at the High Court in Inverness of robbing and murdering Ian MacBeth in Invergordon.

The 50-year-old failed to return to Castle Huntly prison following a period of day release and was reported missing at 9pm on Thursday night.

Police have advised members of the public not to approach Casey and to contact police on 101.

He is described as being five feet eight inches tall, with receding hair and brown eyes. When last seen he was wearing a blue coat, black hooded top, blue jeans and brown walking boots.

Anyone wishing to provide information anonymously can do so through the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.