Three men responsible for a string of armed robberies across north London and Hertfordshire have been jailed for a total of more than 30 years.

Anthony Wright, 38, of Montrose Road, Harrow, Suleyman Karayilan, 41, of Bowater Road, Wembley and homeless Dean Smith, 22, were sentenced at Harrow Crown Court on Tuesday.

All three defendants pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit robbery and conspiracy to possess an imitation firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence.

The gang targeted a series of bookmakers including five in Harrow, one in Finchley and one in Bushey Heath during the space of just six days in November 2017.

On each occasion, Karayilan entered the bookmakers, produced a handgun and demanded money from the till.

During six of the eight offences, Smith held the door open to aid Karayilan's escape.

Wright was identified as being the “getaway driver” on all eight occasions and Karayilan was caught on CCTV during each of the offences.

In total, the gang stole more than £2,000.

The three men were arrested by Flying Squad officers immediately after they carried out a robbery at Coral in High Road, Bushey Heath.

Karayilan was found to be in possession of a gas powered 'BB' gun along with approximately £90 that had been stolen minutes earlier.

Karayilan was sentenced to 11 years and four months' imprisonment, Wright was sentenced to 11 years' imprisonment and Smith was sentenced to nine years' imprisonment.

Acting Detective Chief Inspector Scott Hartley, of the Met's Flying Squad, said: "These men were responsible for a series of violent robberies in short space of time.

"A swift investigation by the Flying Squad quickly identified these men.

"As a result of the fact they were arrested in possession of the gun and stolen cash, an overwhelmingly strong case was built against these defendants, leaving them no option to plead guilty.

"The lengthy sentences handed out by the judge reflect the severity of offences involving the use of a firearm.

"I would like to thank all the officers from the Flying Squad involved in this operation who acted with the upmost professionalism to bring this series of armed robberies to a swift conclusion."