A stolen car recovered in Motherwell is thought to be linked with a missing prisoner who has been on the run since last week.

Anthony Ferrie attacked two custody guards and escaped from a G4S van during a visit to St John's Hospital in Livingston, West Lothian, at 1pm on Thursday.

One guard was knocked unconscious and the other left requiring hospital treatment for an arm injury.

Police have since been focusing their search efforts in the west of Scotland, concentrating on Lanarkshire, but the 33-year-old remains at large.

On Sunday, at around 8.30pm, officers recovered a Renault Megane within Stevenston Court, Motherwell.

The car was stolen from outside the owner's home in Kaimes Brae, Livingston - just over a mile from St John's Hospital - the day after Ferrie escaped, on Friday, August 5.

Police are now appealing for anyone who remembers seeing the driver of the car or has information about Ferrie's current whereabouts to get in contact.

Detective inspector Paul Batten said: "We had already been conducting inquiries within the Lanarkshire area and the discovery of this vehicle is of significant interest to our investigation to trace Anthony Ferrie.

"We are very keen to hear from anyone who remembers seeing the individual who left the Renault Megane within Stevenston Court in Motherwell on Sunday evening, or who believes they may have seen Ferrie in this area.

"In addition, anyone with any further information relevant to our ongoing inquiry should also contact police."

Ferrie, a prisoner at HMP Addiewell, is serving time for housebreaking.

He described as white, 6ft, of slim build and wearing a blue sweater, jeans and trainers. Police said he has links to Bellshill, Motherwell and Grangemouth.

If seen, members of the public should not approach Ferrie and should contact Police Scotland on 101. Anyone wishing to provide information anonymously can do so through the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.