A gang responsible for killing a man as he tried to defend his business during a robbery has been sentenced to a total of more than 71 years.

A group of six men were convicted on May 13 of the manslaughter of, Chigwell man, Shammi Atwal, 45, and conspiracy to commit robbery.

The attack took place outside Mr Atwal’s cash and carry business Glenn & CO, on River Road, Barking on October 14.

Armed with an array of weapons including sledgehammers and metal bars the gang smashed their way through several doors charging at the cahiers as they threatened them and demanded they hand over cash.

Mr Atwal grabbed one of the men as they exited the main warehouse and a struggled ensued in which Mr Atwal was pushed and fell into the path of an oncoming lorry.

A statement on behalf of Mr Atwal’s wife, Damanjeet Kaur, said:”Shammi was the most loving husband and father.

“Since that Monday I don’t know how to cope or live anymore.

“We have lost the children’s father, my husband and this is something we will live with for the rest of our life.

“There are no words to express how we are feeling - we are just living.

The sentences passed today at the Old Bailey are:

Vidmantas Gorskoves, 26, of Grange Road, Plaistow, sentenced to a total of 11 years and four months.

Aurimas Diliunas, 27, of Rosslyn Road, Barking, sentenced to a total of 11 years 8 months.

Farhan Sheikh, 39, of Thornhill Gardens, Barking, sentenced to a total of 13 years.

Deibidas Sumskas, 25, of Ottley Road, Newham, sentenced to a total of 11 years and 4 months.

Reiniks Kivers, 28, of no fixed abode, sentenced to a total of 13 years.

Edgaras Balezantis, 25, of Tollgate Road, Newham, sentenced to a total of 11 years and four months.

Detective Chief Inspector Neale Baldock said after sentencing; “Mr Atwal died whilst trying to defend his livelihood and these callous men have showed no remorse for their actions.

“I am pleased with the sentences handed down today as they reflect the true nature of the offence.”