London - Britain's Great Train Robber Ronnie Biggs, who gave himself up to police in 2001 after 36 years on the run, is likely to be freed from jail in July in time for his 80th birthday, his lawyer said in London on Thursday.

Biggs, who is partially paralyzed after a series of strokes, seizures and heart attacks, is currently held under medical supervision in Norwich hospital, in south-east Britain.

He gained notoriety for his role in the audacious 1963 raid on a Glasgow to London mail train in which a 15-strong gang of robbers got away with a record cash haul of 2.6 million pounds.

But Biggs escaped from jail in London just 15 months after his conviction and fled to France, Spain, Australia and Brazil, leading the high life and giving Scotland Yard's detectives the slip for 36 years.

His case was reviewed Thursday by Britain's Parole Board, which said it expected to make a recommendation for the prisoner's release in the near future. A final decision will be taken by Justice Secretary Jack Straw.

However, Biggs' lawyer, Giovanni de Stefano, indicated Thursday that there was little doubt that Biggs would be freed. Outstanding technical issues such as the selection of a care home and payment for his care would be clarified shortly.

"There are no indications to suggest that Mr Biggs will not be released on July 4, 2009," said di Stefano, referring to the date of the prisoner's eligibility for parole.

Biggs will mark his 80th birthday on August 8, which is also the 46th anniversary of the audacious heist. (dpa)