David Curwin carried out crime spree after escaping from prison

An escaped prisoner who stole thousands of pounds during armed raids while he was on the run has been jailed for life.

David Curwin targeted banks and bookmakers, including two branches in Wembley, during the spate of robberies committed from February 11 to May 24.

The 50-year-old had absconding from HMP Sudbury - a category D prison - in Derbyshire on February 1.

He was handed a life sentence with a 10-year tariff by judge Andrew Campbell at Kingston Crown Court today, court officials confirmed.

He pleaded guilty to eight armed robberies and one attempted armed robbery at venues across London, during which a total of £34,000 was stolen.

Curwin, of no fixed address, also admitted nine counts of possession of a firearm in relation to the crime spree, and absconding from HMP Sudbury.