MashGet

The Great Train Robber Ronnie Biggs is officially a free man today after the three prison guards who have been mounting a round-the-clock watch on him left his bedside at the Norfolk and Norwich hospital, where he is being treated for pneumonia.

One of Britain's most notorious criminals, who celebrates his 80th birthday tomorrow, was granted compassionate release by Jack Straw yesterday. The justice ministry confirmed that he has been handed a copy of his licence conditions releasing him from the rest of his 30-year sentence.