AFTER the sentencing, Deputy Assistant Commissioner Peter Clarke, head of the Met's Counter Terrorism Command, said: "Dhiren Barot and his gang were determined terrorists who planned bombings on both sides of the Atlantic.

"We know Barot was the ringleader of this terrorist cell.

"However, he needed the help of the seven men who have been jailed today.

"The plans for a series of co-ordinated attacks in the United Kingdom included packing three limousines with gas cylinders and explosives before setting them off in underground car parks.

"This could have caused huge loss of life. The plans to set off a dirty bomb in this country would have caused fear, panic and widespread disruption.

"The seven men jailed today were not the instigators of the planned attacks. But they were the planning team and were needed by Barot to contribute expertise in areas that he was lacking.

"They were the trusted few who researched, carried out reconnaissance and supported Barot.

"Each had a different role to play."