A NOTORIOUS Glasgow criminal who once tried to gouge a man’s eye out with a spoon is on the run from police.

Crimestoppers has offered a reward of £2,000 for information which leads to the arrest of Martin Hamilton, who was jailed for life in 2000.

The 53-year-old from Anderston, who was once dubbed the ‘Blackhill Butcher’, is described by officers as “dangerous”.

He was released from prison in September 2014 but has since breached the terms of his licence, according to police.

Angela Parker, National Manager for Crimestoppers Scotland, said: “We believe that Hamilton may be dangerous and it is imperative that he is found as soon as possible.

“Members of the public are advised not to approach him but, if you do know of his whereabouts, I would urge you to contact us anonymously.

“We don’t take personal details and we can’t trace information given by phone or online. Noone will know you called.

“Do the right thing and help us find Hamilton.”

Before he was jailed for life, Hamilton walked free from twelve High Court indictments for crimes including possession of firearms, a shooting, serious assault and robbery.

Justice caught up with him at the High Court in Inverness where he was convicted of drug dealing offences and ordering the kidnap and torture of victims from the Edinburgh drug scene.

In one incident Hamilton attempted to gouge a man’s eye out with a spoon. He also tried to cut a man’s finger off with a knife.

He had already served a nine-year sentence for trying to rob the Dunfermline Building Society in Anniesland in 1992.

Anyone with information about Hamilton is asked to call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or fill out an anonymous online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.