Escapee recaptured in Launceston

A handcuffed Tasmanian man who broke free from prison guards and escaped custody has been recaptured in Launceston.

A search was sparked for Aaron Richard Thompson, 27, on Thursday morning when he ran from officers who were escorting him from Launceston General Hospital where he had received treatment.

Within two hours Thompson was found at a residence and taken into custody, police said.