A PRISONER has been charged with breaking out of a Cheshire jail.

Jonathan Simpson, 42, had previously been a prisoner at HM Prison Thorn Cross in Appleton Thorn.

The defendant appeared at Chester Magistrates Court on Tuesday, September 13, via videolink from HMP Moorland, Doncaster.

He is charged with escaping lawful custody on March 23 this year.

Simpson, who spoke to confirm his name and date of birth, entered no plea.

The court heard the case would automatically go to the crown court and Simpson is now due to appear at Chester Crown Court on October 11.