Judge Chris Prince told Anthony Wallace that was the "starting point" for the raids he carried out on Ladbrokes in Seaside Lane, Easington Colliery, and Bell's store in Fulwell Road, Peterlee.

Durham Crown Court heard Wallace failed to get any money from the bookmaker, but escaped with more than £400 from the convenience store.

Wearing a hooded top and carrying a large kitchen knife, he approached Ladbrokes assistant Chris Davis and demanded cash.

Wallace fled empty-handed when the shop's alarm was set off.

A few hours later, Wallace and another man went into the Bell's store and again demanded money.

Wallace had the same kitchen knife, and his accomplice had a screwdriver.

Terrified staff handed over more than £400 which the pair pocketed and fled.

Wallace was wearing a hood but his face was not covered and one of the shop assistants was later able to pick him out of an identity parade.

One of his known associates was seen a few days later driving a car in Peterlee.

Police stopped the car and found Wallace hiding in the rear footwell.

His accomplice at the Bell's store robbery has never been caught, the court heard.

Wallace, 23, of no fixed address, but known to be from Easington, admitted attempted robbery and robbery on May 24, this year.

Peter Schofield, mitigating, said: "He is a man who has a number of previous convictions, although none for offences as serious as these.

The judge ordered the report and told Wallace: "The starting point for offences such as these is six or seven years."

Wallace was remanded in custody and his case was listed for sentence on December 5.