THE net was closing in on dangerman Graham Jones today after he returned home last night - apparently to see his son on his eighth birthday.

Jones, wanted in connection with the attempted murder of his wife and mother-in-law, was spotted by a policeman guarding Jones's three children.

The fugitive was looking through a back window of the house in Hindburn Drive, Boothstown, at 7.30pm. He then fled.

Today officers, some with dogs, were still searching outhouses on the estate. Detectives believe Jones returned home in a vain bid to see his son Martin who celebrates his eighth birthday today.

Police believe Jones is now short of money and wants to give himself up.

Det Chief Insp Kenny Caldwell said: "The best birthday present Martin could have is to know that his dad is safe and well. I believe that Mr Jones wants to see his son. I can assure him that he will be allowed to, once we have spoken to him first."

Jones is understood to have spent Wednesday night at a Blackpool guest house. He went on the run 10 days ago after a knife attack on his wife, Susan, 33, and her mother Kathleen Malvern, 57, who is still detained in Salford's Hope Hospital.

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