CHIPPENHAM NEWS: A MAN who snatched two rings from a Chippenham jewellers has walked free from court.

Gareth Allen grabbed jewellery worth more than £5,000, before running away from Chas Hart Jewellers in Chippenham.

But the 32-year-old was arrested after a 100mph chase on the A350, which landed the driver of the getaway car in prison.

Colin Meeke, prosecuting, told Swindon Crown Court Allen went into the shop in the Market Place on February 24 last year, asking to see two rings worth £5,500.

"As the jeweller was holding them out he snatched them both from her hand and ran off, leaving her very frightened," he said.

Shop owner Tony Knight scribbled down the registration of the getaway car and called the police.

Mr Meeke said Allen had thrown down the rings as he left the store and they were recovered inside the front door.

Allen, of Hudson Close, Watford, admitted theft but denied robbery. The court heard he had a string of previous convictions and had been jailed for a robbery in 1993.

Graham Smith, defending, said his client was going through a difficult time.

Sentencing Allen, Recorder Christopher Frazer said: "You have been separated from your five-year-old daughter who you have a good relationship with. I have got her very much in mind in imposing a sentence of three mon-ths imprisonment. By that I mean your immediate release."