WE think it’s going to be a long, long time before one prolific armed robber walks free following a string of hits on transit vans.

Elton John, aged 51, of Brockley Road, Brockley, has been left singing the blues after he was found guilty at Woolwich Crown Court yesterday (Jan 12).

Along with Mark Ruddock, aged 46, from Peckham, John was arrested following a Flying Squad investigation in 2009 following hits on transit vans in Welling, West Wickham, Blackheath and Shooters Hill.

Police observed both men as they attempted to rob a cash-in-transit van at the Co-op, Downham Way, on October 9 2009.

As the collection was taking place John approached the Co-op and placed his hand inside a small bag which he was carrying around his neck.

He was looking directly at the security guard who was carrying a cash box containing £20,000 in cash, the court heard.

Armed police moved in and arrested the men.

A handgun was found on John's person, with a bullet loaded into the breach and a magazine with a further seven rounds.

After their conviction for conspiracy to commit robbery and unlawful possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence, Detective Chief Inspector Paul Johnson from the Flying Squad said both men had a history of armed robbery, firearms and extreme violence.

He said: "Together they represented a major threat to the safety of cash in transit staff and the police officers involved in the operation.”

They are remanded in custody for sentencing on February 9.