"ALTHOUGH a diligent search has been conducted throughout the week, the man Ernest Preece, the story of whose sensational escape from the county gaol at Worcester was received on Sunday, remains at large," reported the Gazette 100 years ago.

"He is reported to have been seen in various parts of the district since Sunday, bur reliable news as to his movements is almost entirely lacking.

"Preece must have excercised considerable ingenuity in making his escape in so quiet and effective a mannner. He was awaiting trial on a charge of house breaking in Malvern Link, and he managed to force an exit through the roof of his cell. It is supposed that he climbed the spouting either on the governor's house or the gateway buildings, and descended by similar means into the street.

"Apparently Preece promptly started for Malvern when he got outside the prison walls, Reaching Malvern, the man broke into the grocery store of Mr Griffin at the Link Top, from which bacon and other provisions, a sum of money and certain utensils were removed.

"He then proceeded, it seems, to a vacant house, Eastcote, in Alexandra Road, where he cooked bacon and eggs. While preparing his his breakfast he was surprised, but he succeeded in making his escape. He left behind him his prison coat, in one of the pockets of which was found 5s in coppers, which is presumed to be part of the money stolen from Mr Griffin's establishment.

"It is declared that Preece was seen last night in Sherrards Green, and made off across the fields."