TWO men have been given jail terms totalling more than 20 years after carrying out a series of terrifying armed robberies over two days in Stourbridge last year.

Peter Marsden and Stephen Beckley were sentenced at Wolverhampton Crown Court on Wednesday July 5 for a number of robberies, which took place in March 2022.

Marsden, aged 58, and Beckley, aged 34, committed the first of their robberies at the Spar store, Bridgnorth Road, on March 29.

They then struck twice again the following day, March 30, first at Sainsbury’s on the High Street in Wollaston, and then at Tesco Express on Hagley Road, Stourbridge.

Each time the pair threatened staff members, wielding weapons including what appeared to be a handgun, before making off with cash and other items.

Police managed to catch up with the duo within a week of their final offence after gathering witness testimonies and analysing CCTV footage. Marsden was picked up on April 4 and Beckley on April 5.

Marsden, of Enville Street, Stourbridge, pleaded guilty to three counts of robbery, possession of an imitation firearm, possession of a bladed article and affray and he was sentenced to 11 years and two months in prison.

Beckley, also of Enville Street, Stourbridge, pleaded guilty to three counts of robbery and possession of an imitation firearm and he was sentenced to nine years and 10 months in jail.

DC Luke Capewell, from Dudley CID, said: “Marsden and Beckley embarked on something of a robbery spree in Stourbridge, targeting three stores within two days. I’ve no doubt that they would have carried on had we not stopped them in their tracks.

“Following a swift investigation, we quickly identified and apprehended the suspects, bringing their robberies to a halt.

"We’re especially grateful to the victims of this duo for their courage in coming forward with information after what was undoubtedly a traumatic experience.

"Marsden and Beckley are callous, dangerous individuals and we’re pleased to see them justly punished for their actions.”