A CRIME gang member has been jailed for 13 years for his part in an elaborate and dangerous robbery spree that involved cash machines being blow up.

Ian Ellis, of Warrington Road, Rainhill was one of five men who were sentenced Liverpool Crown Court following a series of ATM attacks at 28 different premises last year, including on Eccleston Street, in Prescot.

Ellis was charged with conspiracy to cause an explosion and conspiracy to commit burglary other than a dwelling.

The attacks resulted in losses to the businesses targeted by the thieves of about £1.5 million. Damage to the properties estimated to be in excess of £200,000.

Detective Chief Inspector Gayle Rooney, from the Matrix Serious Organised Crime Team (MSOC), said: "Given the geographical spread of these offences the investigation has been complex and extensive.

These five men thought they were untouchable and they used hazardous tactics in targeting ATM's, clearly endangering members of the public. The techniques used by the men involved in these attacks were extremely dangerous and we are fortunate that no one was hurt.

"These men were driven by greed and a need to fund lavish lifestyles, expensive cars, holidays and large houses. They didn't think about the danger of what they were doing and the potential that they could cause serious and significant injuries to others through their reckless actions.

The others convicted are: Thomas Whittingham, 28, of Broughton Hall Road, West Derby was found guilty of both offences and sentenced to 18 years

Anthony Bushell, 29, of Childers Street, Old Swan was found guilty of both offences and sentenced to 17 years

Craig Cartwright, 39, of Vinecote Road, Coventry pleaded guilty to both offences and has been sentenced to 17 years

Kurt Beddoes, 31, of Hanford Avenue, Orrell Park pleaded guilty to both offences and has been sentenced to 17 years.