A TEENAGER has been locked up for an attempted armed robbery at a Blackburn convenience store.

Preston Crown Court heard how Kyah Hammond burst into the Manxman Off Licence in Manxman Road at 1.30pm on October 6, last year, armed with a large kitchen knife, threatened shop staff and demanded cash.

The 18-year-old left empty-handed after staff contacted police.

Following CCTV and telephony enquiries, Hammond was arrested in Derbyshire.

Police said clothing was found which matched those seen on CCTV from the shop.

Hammond, of Oversetts Road, Swadlincote, Derbyshire, pleaded guilty to attempted robbery and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place when he appeared before a judge.

Judge Heather Lloyd sentenced Hammond to 20 months in a young offenders’ institution.

Speaking after the hearing, Detective Constable Alex Summers said: “Hammond’s behaviour was very threatening and it was only thanks to the quick-thinking actions of the victim, who contacted police, which helped prevent a more serious outcome.

“The attempted robbery of a shop, very much at the heart of the community, left many residents shocked and appalled.

“Lancashire Constabulary will not tolerate this kind of behaviour and will deal with offenders who engage in it robustly.

“We welcome the sentence handed down at court.”

Police described Hammond's crime as a shocking and appalling incident at a business which is very much at the heart of the community.