Police hunt robbery mastermind

Police are appealing for the public's help to trace a man wanted in connection with a series of armed robberies against cash-in-transit vans and financial institutions throughout the UK, including Greater Manchester and Lancashire.

Paul Douglas Williams, 33, of Hawthorne Avenue, Radcliffe, has been charged with conspiracy to commit a number of robberies between March and November 2007.

The robberies involve the theft and attempt theft of large sums of money at various locations throughout the UK, including Avon and Somerset, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Northamptonshire and South Wales.

Williams failed to appear at Manchester Crown Court on 23 January 2009. A warrant for his arrest was subsequently issued.

Williams is from the Salford area of Greater Manchester but had recently been living in the Radcliffe area of Bury. His current whereabouts are unknown.

Detective Chief Inspector Michael Fraser, from GMP's Robbery Unit, said: "The offences Williams has been charged with are very serious, and failing to appear at court is equally as grave a matter.

"Williams is a dangerous man and should not be approached. I would ask anyone who may have seen him or who knows where he may be to contact police.

"The extent of his suspected criminal activities suggest he could be anywhere within the country."

Anyone with information is asked to call Greater Manchester Police on 0161 872 5050 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.