A DARWEN man has been jailed for five years after pleading guilty to robbery.

Ian Potter, 23, of Lauren Avenue, was jailed at Preston Crown Court on Friday.

Potter was arrested earlier this year following a shop robbery in Walmsley Street.

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At around 8pm on January 10, two men wearing balaclavas entered the store attempting to steal money.

One of the offenders was carrying a machete, while the second man, later identified as Potter, had a knife.

The first raider attacked a male staff member hitting him over the head.

Potter then attempted to stop the victim from leaving the store and stabbed the worker in the stomach before both offenders made off.

The staff member, a 26-year-old man from Darwen, suffered minor injuries and was treated at hospital.

During the struggle, the victim removed Potter’s balaclava.

Officers seized the item as evidence and during testing found it matched Potter’s DNA.

Police arrested the 23-year-old and charged him with robbery.

Potter entered a guilty plea before trial following evidence produced by Lancashire Police.

He was sentenced to five years and seven months in prison.

The second offender is still wanted by police.

Det Con Tony Roberts, of Lancashire Police, said: “This was a particularly shocking crime where two men attempted to steal cash as part of a violent raid.

“The staff member who confronted the pair showed extraordinary bravery and eventually forced the robbers, including Potter, to run from the store.

“Potter showed no remorse for his actions and only pleaded guilty following the overwhelming evidence gathered by Lancashire Police before trial.

“We welcome the court’s decision and hope it serves as warning to others.”