Charles Bronson - one of the UK's most infamous inmates - could see freedom in a matter of months.

       A ninth review of the 72-year-old armed robber's case is set to take place after spending nearly 50 years behind bars.

       Mr Bronson was first put in jail at just 22 years old for armed robbery and wounding in 1974. After being released in 1987, he became a bare-knuckle boxer. However, he was jailed again in the following year for another armed robbery.

       He was given a life sentence for kidnapping in 1999 - and Mr Bronson has been in confinement ever since.

       But now a fresh parole hearing could see him freed. A friend of the criminal told the Mirror that “he fears dying in prison.”

       They said: “This could be his one and only chance of freedom. It has been several years now since he has been violent. He is not the person he was. We hope this will be the year he is released."

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       Due to his long string of attacks on inmates and wardens while in jail, Mr Bronson earned the title of Britain’s most violent prisoner.

       During his outbursts, he had made weapons using jam jars, silk ties and glassware and caused damages worth over ￡500,000.

       In his latest parole hearing two years ago, Mr Bronson was refused being moved to an open prison. The panel noticed “evidence of improved self-control and better emotional management” but “could not be satisfied he has the skills to manage his risk of future violence…”

       The Parole Board said the next hearing could last at least a day as psychiatrists, prison officers and victims give evidence.

       It said: “Decisions are focused on what risk a prisoner could represent to the public if released and whether that risk is manageable... It is standard for the prisoner and witnesses to be questioned at length.”

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       The armed robber’s second offence saw him sentenced to seven years in jail for the burglary of a jewellery shop. However, he was released early in 1992. Just 53 days later he was back behind bars for intent to commit robbery.

       Mr Bronson held three men hostage in his cell which saw him add another seven years to his sentence, although it was cut to five on appeal.

       The criminal was finally given a life sentence in 1999 after the kidnapping of prison teacher Phil Danielson, causing major destruction to the prison.

       Mr Bronson remains in HM Prison Woodhill after he was returned there in 2018 after a stint at a number of prisons across the UK.