One of the ringleaders of the Oldham race riots has been jailed for five years.

Shaukat Ali, of Glodwick, admitted riot and possessing an explosive substance at Manchester's Minshull Street Crown Court.

Police said his actions in throwing a petrol bomb were instrumental in escalating the disturbances, in May 2001.

The court heard the 26-year-old admitted his involvement after realising the amount of evidence against him.

Ali is the 10th rioter to be jailed

Ali, of Alexandra Road, had bought 30 litres of petrol on Saturday, 26 May, which was used in bombs thrown at police, the court heard.

Detective Chief Inspector Martin Bottomley, of Greater Manchester Police, said: "Shaukat Ali's actions on that night took rioting into a new and frightening phase.

"It escalated the events from brick throwing to setting property and buildings on fire and subjecting police officers to terrifying petrol bomb attacks.

"We hope this sentencing sends out a clear positive message to the community that violence and disorder will not be tolerated."

The Oldham riots took place over three nights and resulted in 86 police officers being injured.

Ali is the 10th person to be sentenced for his involvement in the disturbances.

The sentences handed out so far total 35 years.