A convicted murderer who is wanted for emergency recall to prison will feature on BBC’s Crimewatch tonight (Thursday).

North Yorkshire Police are leading the search for William Kerr, 53, who needs to be arrested and returned to prison as a matter of urgency.

Kerr was jailed for life for murder at Leeds Crown Court on June 26, 1998. He was living at an address in Skipton prior to his arrest.

He was released on licence on January 23, 2015. However, he absconded from approved premises in Hull on Thursday, March 26. Despite widespread national publicity, and a reward of up to £5,000 from Crimestoppers, Kerr remains at large.

Kerr, who speaks with a Scottish accent, is believed to be in the London area, and may be trying to book into a hostel or other accommodation using a false name as he has done previously.

If they see him, people are asked not to approach him but instead to call the police immediately on 999.

Kerr’s photograph will be broadcast in the ‘wanted faces’ part of Crimewatch, which starts at 9pm on BBC One.

Detective Inspector Eamonn Clarke, of North Yorkshire Police, said: “Kerr is a very dangerous man, so if you see him, please do not approach him. Dial 999 right away and we will send officers to investigate.”

If you have seen William Kerr or have information about his current whereabouts, please dial 999 immediately and inform your local police that you are calling in response to North Yorkshire Police’s Crimewatch wanted appeal to trace William Kerr.

Independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers is also offering a reward of up to £5,000 for information passed through its 0800 555 111 number that leads to Kerr’s arrest