A prisoner is at large in Dublin this afternoon after escaping while in custody.

The prisoner fled while being escorted to St James Hospital this morning.

This prisoner, who is aged in his early 20s, was being brought from Wheatfield Prison to St James Hospital at around 8 o’clock this morning.

At least two prison officers were with him but he managed to escape.

Gardai were notified immediately and given all the relevant details about the inmate.

The prisoner – who is from West Dublin – is currently serving an 8 and a half year jail sentence for assaulting a homeless man.

He has around 30 previous convictions.

The Irish Prison Service says an investigation is underway into the circumstances of the escape.