Robber jailed for pointing fake gun at Kasa off-licence worker in Beeston as he stole two bottles of beer from fridge

Matthew Bowes carried out the offence at the Kasa store on Dewsbury Road, Beeston on May 2 last year

Leeds Crown Court heard Bowes went into the store armed with a BB gun in the early hours of the morning.

The air weapon was tucked into his waistband as he went to the back of the shop and picked up two bottles of beer.

The 22-year-old then tried to leave the store without paying but was challenged by the shop assistant.

Bowes took out the weapon and pointed it at the man's face from a distance of around eight feet.

Jonathan Sharp, prosecuting, said the shop assistant was frightened and other people inside the store also witnessed the incident.

The robbery was captured on CCTV footage.

Two BB guns were found on top of a TV cabinet.

Bowes, of West Grange Drive, Belle Isle. refused to comment but was picked out as the suspect during an identity procedure.

He pleaded guilty to robbery and possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence.

At the time of the incident he was the subject of a community order imposed after he was found in possession of a knife and cannabis on Vicar Lane in Leeds city centre.

The barrister said Bowes was sorry for what he had done and said her client was emotionally immature.

She added: "He has engaged with the probation service and is in a supportive relationship.

"He is someone who is capable of contributing positively to the community."

Bowes was jailed for three years

The Recorder of Leeds, Judge Guy Kearl QC said: "The shop keeper was vulnerable and no doubt terrified."