A man convicted of conspiracy to rob nine jewellers - including two in Hampshire - is being hunted by police.

Elliott Albert Burton, 28, of Southacre Avenue, Birmingham failed to appear at court on Thursday, April 17 and in his absence was found guilty of conspiracy to commit robbery.

Burton was convicted of conspiracy to rob nine jewellery stores which occurred throughout eight police force areas in the country. Two of these robberies occurred at Jeremy France Jewellers, Winchester; one on November 8 2005 and one on December 19 2006.

As part of the appeal, officers are appearing on BBC Crimewatch on Thursday, April 24 to help trace Burton.

Detective Inspector Frances Payne of Hampshire Constabulary, said: "He is known to have family and friends in the Birmingham area, but has in the past travelled the United Kingdom to perpetrate his crimes. He is 6ft 1ins and weighs about 17 stone, he speaks with a broad Birmingham accent.

"While we would not wish to alarm the public, we believe he is a dangerous man and anyone knowing his whereabouts should not approach him. Instead, they should call the police immediately."

Anyone with any information about the whereabouts of Elliot Burton should contact Hampshire Constabulary immediately on 0845 045 45 45 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.