Witness describes robber Redoine Faid's prison escape

French police are hunting a notorious convicted armed robber, who staged a dramatic escape from prison.

Redoine Faid set off a series of explosions and took four guards hostage during the escape from Sequedin prison, outside Lille.

Police say he is armed and still in possession of explosives.

One local man described hearing a shot, then two explosions, as Faid blasted his way through the prison's security doors.