A VIOLENT gang who stole cars and motorbikes to carry out a string of armed robberies across Tyneside have been jailed.

In August Ricky Weatherson, Michael Quinn and Kevin Shippen admitted their part in five terrifying raids at Newcastle Crown Court at the turn of the year .

They stole thousands of pounds over a three-month period that saw them target cash and transit vans across Newcastle and North Tyneside.

Their criminal activity culminated in a violent robbery at a shop on Westgate Road in February where a staff member was attacked with a machete, suffering two serious cuts.

Quinn, 37, of Colston Street, was jailed for 16 years after admitting to conspiracy to rob.

Weatherson, 27, of Rushie Avenue, was jailed for 15 years after admitting to conspiracy to rob and burglary.

Shippen, 41, of Whickham View, was jailed for 13 years and four months after admitting to conspiracy to rob.

Shaun Leach, 33, was also jailed for three-and-a-half years after he admitted helping to steal cars and motorbikes used in the robberies.

Co-accused Jayne Molloy, 29, of Cannon Street, Amy Cooper and Katie Gales, both of Coventry Gardens, avoided immediate custodial sentences after admitting to hiding the gang’s loot.