One of the two men who escaped from Pentonville Prison on Monday was on remand having been charged with a rash of offences against ATMs on forecourts in the South East.

James Anthony Whitlock, 31, was on remand having been charged with 19 offences of theft from ATMs between December 2015 and August 2016.

Whitlock’s cellmate, who escaped with him, Matthew Baker, 28, was found guilty of attempted murder two weeks ago having stabbed a man in Dagenham following a dispute. He had been remanded for sentencing on 11 November.

Detectives said extensive enquiries are under way to trace the men and they are appealing for information about them.

Whitlock is described as a white man of slim build. He has the word “Tracy” tattooed on his torso. Baker is described as a white man with ginger hair. It is not known what clothing either man had when they escaped from the prison.

Police are asking the public to call them on 999 should they see either man, and not to approach them as they could become violent.

Alternatively, to remain anonymous, they can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.