Heathrow pirate think Peter Blake hands himself in to military

Surrender: Peter Blake has handed himself in to police and will now face a landmark trial accused of the 2004 heist at a warehouse at Heathrow

A man who absconded from a landmark trial where he is accused of taking part in a 1.75million heist at Heathrow handed himself in to police today.

Peter Blake, 57, of Notting Hill, west London, surrendered to Flying Squad officers at the Royal Courts of Justice.

He is one of four alleged armed robbers accused of a February 2004 raid at Heathrow Airport who were put on trial without a jury.

Blake disappeared from court at lunchtime last Wednesday and police launched a nationwide manhunt for him.

The fugitive suspect, alongside his co-accused John Twomey, Barry Hibberd and Glen Cameron, are being tried by Mr Justice Treacy after being accused of taking part in a "professionally executed" robbery.

The court heard that an armed gang of six wearing high-visibility jackets escaped with 1.75million in various currencies.

It is alleged that the thieves had intended to steal more than 10million from the Menzies World Cargo warehouse, but made off with just a fraction of their intended haul. The money has yet to be recovered.

Guns were used to threaten 16 members of staff, who were then tied up. One of them was shot at as he tried to escape.

The Court of Appeal ruled last year that the case should be heard by a judge alone because of the danger of jury tampering.

It is the first major criminal trial in England and Wales to be held without a jury.

Blake"s escape had raised questions about the decision to grant himbail.

Shortly after the afternoon session resumed last Wednesday, he asked for permission toleave court to consult a member of his legal team.

But Blake, whohad been on court bail for up to three years, failed to return andpolice were called in.

He and the other three alleged robbers were given bail understrict conditions because it was the fourth trial they faced over thesame allegations.

All four men on trial deny a series of charges including robbery and firearm possession.

A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: "Peter Blake, 57, has been arrested after he handed himself in at the Royal Courts of Justice today.

"He is currently in custody and will appear before the judge in due course."