A man from Redhill has been jailed following a violent crime spree.

40 year-old Bernard Hicks targeted people in the Merstham and South Nutfield areas.

He pleaded guilty to attempted robbery, robbery, dangerous driving and driving without insurance.

Hicks attempted to steal a car in Merstham in November.  He threatened a pregnant woman with a screwdriver whilst her children were in the vehicle.  The victim managed to defend herself and Hicks walked away, turning his focus to another vehicle.

Moments after his first attempt Hicks threatened another woman with a screwdriver and dragged her from her vehicle by her hair. He then stole the Alpha Romeo and robbed a post office in South Nutfield.

Officers located Hicks quickly and after a short pursuit arrested him in Horley.

Hicks has been sentenced to 5 years imprisonment.