A MURDERER who escaped from a Hampshire jail is to be held at a high-security prison after he was recaptured. William Todd - one of Britain's most dangerous gunmen - is back behind bars after breaking out of Winchester Prison.

Todd, 37, who was serving two life sentences for murder and attempted murder, was arrested near Reading at about 12.30am on Saturday after five days on the run.

The car in which he was travelling was stopped on Headley Road East, Woodley, by officers from Thames Valley police.

Despite giving a false name, Todd - who was unarmed - was recognised by the officers and was arrested without incident.

Three other men who were travelling with Todd are also being held in custody after being arrested on suspicion of assisting an escaped offender.

His successful escape - the first break-out from Winchester prison in more than 30 years means he will not be returning to the Category B jail.

An internal investigation is being held at the prison to establish how Todd got his hands on a hacksaw to aid his escape and why he was only a Category B prisoner in the jail.

Police forces across the country were alerted.