A "DANGEROUS" man jailed for torturing a frail pensioner was at the centre of a major search today after going on the run for eight days.

Police revealed that they had received few sightings of 58-year-old Winswell Sutherland and made a desperate plea for information which would lead to his capture.

They said he was unpredictable and volatile, probably still in East Lancashire - and warned people not to approach him.

Acting Det Insp Ian Critchley, of Blackburn CID, also released the full details of the sickening crime whichprompted a judge to lock up Sutherland for 15 years in 1994.

He was released on licence from prison last August, but walked out of the address he was meant to be staying at in Blackburn last Tuesday with a sleeping bag and holdall.

Police and the Probation Service are now concerned about Sutherland's intentions in breaking the terms of his licence.

DI Critchley said Sutherland, originally from Newcastle, was jailed in 1994 for attacking Ethel Fraser, 78, at her home in Bull Finch Street, Preston.

He added: "He broke into her home and tortured her. He tied her up by her feet over a door and attacked her.

"He was disturbed by neighbours who effectively saved her life.

"She was left blind in one eye following the attack. He was arrested after a stand-off on a rooftop near the scene.

"He was sentenced for burglary and grievous bodily harm."

The pensioner Fraser has since died, although her death was not linked to the attack.

DI Critchley, while acknowledging that Sutherland's release was a matter for the Probation Service, added: "He had done two-thirds of his sentence, which is the statutory amount.

"He had done his time in jail and was let out on licence.

"But he is a dangerous man - we are basing the danger he may pose on the previous offence he has committed and because he is of an unpredictable and volatile nature.

"We would appeal for anyone who has seen him not to approach him, but to report that to the police. We will respond immediately.

"We believe he may well still be in East Lancashire.

"This is not just a police investigation, we are working with the Probation Service and are keen to trace Sutherland as soon as possible."

Sutherland is of mixed race, 5ft7in tall, stocky, with short receding black curly hair and brown eyes.

Anyone with information should call Blackburn police on 01254 51212.