Anthony Hadfield, 25, was branded a danger to the public after a court heard he was part of a three-man team which struck at the Golden Choi, in Burbank Street, Hartlepool.

Teesside Crown Court was told a second robber, who threatened staff with a gun, and the getaway driver have still not been found.

Judge Peter Bowers imposed the sentence after hearing Hadfield had been jailed for 30 months in 2002 for a street robbery.

He said the first robbery, which involved a syringe, and the takeaway attack, in which a gun, knife and a hammer were used, proved Hadfield was a danger.

The judge said: "There is a very significant risk that you'll cause somebody very grave harm in the future.

"In both these robberies you have been armed.

"Sooner or later, you will do somebody a very serious injury if you go around armed and tooled up like that.

"When you come out of prison will depend on the Parole Board, your progress, and you changing your attitude and your behaviour."

Hadfield, of Hereford Street, Hartlepool, admitted robbery, possessing an imitation firearm with intent to commit an offence, and having an offensive weapon.

The court heard there were two women and a seven-month-old baby in the takeaway when the robbers struck at 10.15pm, on April 12.

They got away with three wallets containing £50, and a bag from the kitchen which contained £6,000 which the shop owner had won at a casino.