A MAN has been arrested after police were seen hunting someone 'wearing only boxers and a cone on his head, carrying a road sign.'

Avon and Somerset police confirmed a 23-year-old man had been arrested at around 11.40am in relation to the reports.

A police helicopter was also utilised in the hunt.

The spokesman said: "I can confirm that we have arrested a 23-year-old man on suspicion of escaping lawful custody.

"An hour earlier we received reports that a man had absonded from Taunton Crown Court."

A GEOAmey spokesperson said:“We can confirm an incident today (January 26) at Taunton Crown Court, in which a male prisoner jumped the dock in Court 1 and escaped from the court building.

"He was subsequently recaptured and is now in police custody. Two officers suffered minor injuries whilst giving chase to the prisoner. An investigation will take place into the circumstances surrounding this incident.”