Robert Sinclair, 51, has lived feral for more than 20 years, stealing to eat and survive but was recently granted bail after pleading guilty to various break-ins around central Scotland.

Robert Sinclair lived rough for more than 20 years

He was tracked down to a barn in Denny, Stirlingshire, following reports of strange noises heard on the premises. Police said he was arrested without a struggle.

A warrant was issued for his arrest in August when he failed to appear at a deferred sentence court hearing after disappearing from the home given to him to save him from jail.

Willie Leitch, who befriended Mr Sinclair in prison, offered him a room in his house in Livingston, West Lothian, in an attempt to help him adjust to "civilised" life.

Awaiting trial

Mr Sinclair had previously tried to commit suicide while awaiting trial and it was felt that the option of allowing him to live with Mr Leitch could work to his benefit.

Having signed on for social security for the first time, and reaching agreement with a TV company to make a film of his life, it was believed he was adjusting well to his new life.

However, only five weeks later, Mr Leitch found a note from Mr Sinclair reading: "They'll not get me this time."

Mr Sinclair is now back in Barlinnie Prison, waiting for a date to return to Stirling Sheriff Court.