Hampshire police today welcomed the conviction of three of the country's most wanted armed robbers.

The three were convicted at Birmingham Crown Court following a series of armed robberies committed at locations across eight police force areas.

One of the robbers is currently on the run.

The three week trial followed a three year police investigation into armed robberies at jewellers, including two armed robberies at Jeremy France Jewellers, inb Winchester, one on November 8 2005 and one on December 19 2006.

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Frances Payne, from Hampshire Police, said: "These men travelled across the United Kingdom targeting jewellers to perpetrate their robberies.

"They were armed and sought jewellery and watches, and the staff and public at the targeted jewellers were terrified when confronted by this gang.

"These convictions are the result of extensive enquiries led by Hampshire Constabulary which covered eight police force areas over a three year period.

"I would like to thank the police officers and staff involved in the investigation for their hard work and dedication.

"These convictions should stand as a stark warning to anyone intent on committing criminal activity that we are relentless in our determination to prosecute and secure a conviction."