A FORMER Ministry of Defence worker who attempted to blow up his ex girlfriend’s car with home-made petrol bombs after a financial dispute has been jailed.

Malcolm Stewart, 44, drove from his Bristol home to Houghton on February 19 last year, and attached four explosive devices, made with plastic bottles filled with petrol, under and in the wheel arches of his ex’s car.

The victim spotted one of the bombs as she returned home after going out in the car. The other three had fallen off.

Officers searched his home in Adelante Close, Bristol, and found evidence linking him to the devices and a police-style baton in his car.

Detective Constable Hollie Daines said: “This was a pre-planned attempt to terrify his former partner.

“The devices had the potential to explode, with devastating consequences, not only to the driver of the car, but also anyone who might have been nearby. It was only through sheer luck that no-one was seriously injured or killed as a result of his actions.”

Stewart was convicted of attempted arson with intent to cause damage and possessing an offensive weapon following a trial at Peterborough Crown Court. He was jailed for five years and two months yesterday (Thursday).