A Putney man who was chased by two brave members of the public after committing an armed robbery at a bookmakers' in March has been sentenced.

Dennis Lukonge, 20, of Henry Jackson Road, Putney, was pursued by the two passers-by after he and an unidentified accomplice held-up the Coral bookmakers on Ewell High Street, Surrey on March 16.

Although they were not able to stop the robbers, they did manage to retrieve the unloaded weapon and hand it to Surrey Police.

Lukonge appeared at Guildford Crown Court on July 8 where he pleaded guilty to robbery and possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear.

He also admitted more than 100 other offences he had committed in the Metropolitan Police area which were taken into account during sentencing.

Lukonge was given an indeterminate prison sentence and ordered to serve a minimum of four years.

Detective Sergeant Eddie Poole of Surrey Police said: "We built up such a wealth of evidence against Lukonge he had no option but to hold his hands up and admit committing this armed robbery.

"At the time of the robbery, two very brave passers-by gave chase after Lukonge and his accomplice. As a result of their quick-thinking and heroics we were able to secure vital forensic evidence which helped our investigation. I have personally thanked these two community-spirited residents who were also awarded a Judge's Commendation for their bravery.

"Those inside the bookmakers' at the time of the robbery were left extremely distraught. I hope his sentence reassures them, and the wider community, that Surrey Police is committed to keeping the county a safe place for all."

Attempts to track Lukonge's accomplice are continuing.