An Islamist preacher accused of inspiring a generation of British jihadists will be released from prison within months, and concern is mounting within police forces and MI5.

Anjem Choudary, 51, who was jailed in September 2016 for urging Muslims to support the terrorist group Isis, is expected to be released on licence in October.

Choudary’s release from HMP Frankland, Co Durham, where he is understood to be in a “separation centre”, will come halfway through his 5½-year sentence. Next week marks the first anniversary of the London Bridge terrorist attack, masterminded by one of his former acolytes. Eight people died and 48 were injured in the June 3 atrocity.

Anti-terrorism officials at Scotland Yard are concerned Choudary’s release will heighten community tension, given his history