A man is on the run from police after being sentenced to six years in prison for possessing a sawn-off shotgun.

Anthony Thomas, 24, of Harrier Road, Colindale, was sentenced in his absence on May 2 following a four day trial at Wood Green Crown Court.

The court heard how officers executed a search warrant at his address on December 19. With the help of a firearms recovery dog which is trained to find guns and ammunition, they searched the attic space and found blank ammunition and a sawn-off shotgun loaded with a cartridge.

Thomas claimed he used the blank shells for dog training but when asked about the sawn-off shotgun he said: "I’m not saying anything.”

He was charged for firearms offences but breached his bail by failing to attend his trial.

A warrant has been issued for his arrest and police are appealing to the public to help find him.

Officer in the case Andy Deamer of Barnet police said: "I would appeal to anyone who has information about the current whereabouts of Thomas to contact police immediately. This man has been convicted of a serious offence and should not be approached.

“I would ask the public to assist us with any information, all of which will be treated in strictest confidence. You can phone police on 101 or in an emergency phone 999."