A ROBBER who demanded cash from two stores in the Eastleigh area, while possessing a blade, has been jailed for nearly five years.

Connor Davis and two other men raided the Co-op, at Falkland Court, Chandler’s Ford, demanding money in an evening raid on New Year’s Day.

Staff were left terrified as Davis, who was disguised, brandished an “arrow-like” weapon on them before making off with no more than £500.

Southampton Crown Court heard this occurred while the 24-year-old was on bail anbd charged with going armed into the Co-op at Boyatt Wood. He got through an insecure backdoor, before making off with £150 in coins before returning with a knife and trying to get more money.

Timothy Akers, prosecuting, said Davis was originally bought to justice when his fingerprint was found on a bottle of Lucozade, leaving his fingerprints on the bottle inside the shop.

This led officers to an address on Merrick Court, Chandler’s Ford, the court heard. When they went to the property, Davis attempted to evade their capture by making holes in the building’s roof and sitting out on the premises, Mr Akers added.

Davis was charged and bailed, however months later he was involved in the January 1 robbery.

Mr Akers told the court that Davis, who was previously convicted five times, had been electronically tagged and was seen to arrive home late on the day of the incident. He added that Davis was recognised by a member of staff in the shop who said he was a “regular”.

Joanne Chester, mitigating, said Davis had “missed opportunities” in his life and in each incident he stole small amounts of money.

She added: “They say that crime does not pay and I think Davis has learned that now.”

Davis, of HMP Winchester, pleaded guilty to robbery, burglary, two charges of possessing a bladed article and assault. He was jailed for 52 months.