David Curwin, 50, is accused of carrying out thefts after absconding from Sudbury Prison

An escaped prisoner appeared in court today charged with carrying out a series of armed robberies on bank and betting shops including two branches in Wembley.

David Curwin, of no fixed address, is accused of eight armed robberies and one attempted robbery between February and May this year.

The 50-year-old is claimed to have stolen a total of £34,000 after carrying out the first robbery the day after he absconded from Sudbury Prison.

He is also charged with escaping from lawful custody and nine counts of possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence, regarding each robbery and attempted robbery.

He appeared before South Western Magistrates’ Court where he was remanded in custody to reappear at Kingston Crown Court on July 12.