A man who robbed a shop armed with a knife has been jailed for four years.

Matthew Fearn went into Cummings Store in Gandalfs Ride, South Woodham Ferrers at around 11.50am on July 14.

He demanded a member of staff open the till before making off with a three-figure sum of cash.

Fearn, 36, of The Whithy Windle, South Woodham Ferrers, was arrested on August 3 and later charged.

Initially he had denied the robbery and possession of a knife but changed his plea at Chelmsford Crown Court on October 31.

At the same court, on Monday, he was sentenced to four years for robbery and six months for possession of a knife with the sentences to run concurrently.

Investigating officer Pc Sam Benfield said: “This was a frightening incident which left the member of staff fearing for their safety.

“It is galling that Matthew Fearn was so comfortable threatening violence in order to steal money.

“I am glad he is off the streets and Essex is a safer place with him behind bars.”