An armed robber who used his aunt’s Mercedes to steal £35,000 from Halifax security van has been jailed for six years.

Dominic Stewart, 21, swooped on the van outside the branch in London’s Fleet Street after security guards prevented him entering the bank.

The robber, who lives in South Norwood, fled with a cash box but was picked up by police after searches discovered dye-stained money and a firearm.

Stewart was sentenced to six years for robbery and five years for possession of a firearm at Southwark Crown Court on February 4, to be served concurrently.

Detective Chief Inspector Danny Medlycott, from the City of London Police, said: “This young man organised a robbery with the intention of stealing a large sum of money.

“What he did not plan on was the quick and effective actions of my officers, who have returned the money to its rightful owner and ensured a criminal is today behind bars.”