A MAN who smashed his way into an antiques shop with a sledgehammer has been sentenced to 12 years in prison.

Ryan Luke Stanley, 24, was handed an extended determinate sentence of eight years’ imprisonment increased by four years.

Stanley pleaded guilty to threatening staff at Montpellier Antiques in Montpellier Mews, Harrogate, on March 16.

He stole watches and jewellery from inside the shop and then he and four other men who were with him at the time of the robbery left the scene in a stolen Lexus, later found abandoned nearby. 

Stanley, of Firefly Close, Salford, also pleaded guilty to possession of an offensive weapon at the sentencing at Manchester Crown Court.

Det Insp Nichola Holden, of Harrogate Serious Crime Team, said: “This was an extremely frightening experience for the staff and customers who were in the shop on the day of the robbery and I am very pleased that someone has been held accountable for the offence. 

“North Yorkshire Police will not tolerate criminals from other areas coming here to commit crime and this case shows that we are prepared to cross borders and work with other forces in the pursuit of justice.” 

Inquiries remain ongoing to trace the other men involved in the robbery and anyone with information is urged to contact North Yorkshire Police on 101 – select option 2 – and ask for Harrogate Serious Crime Team.