A man armed with a hatchet carried out a terrifying attempted robbery of a corner shop.
Robert Dorrington entered the Lifestyle store and post office in Pentonville, Newport , at about 7am on Wednesday, January 8.
Carrying a hatchet-style axe, the 50-year-old demanded money from a member of staff but none was handed over and he left empty-handed.
The staff member was left "shaken", according to a Gwent Police statement released after the incident, but they were ultimately unharmed.
Officers launched a manhunt to find the culprit following the attempted robbery, a sentencing hearing at Cardiff Crown Court heard.
CCTV images capturing the moment Dorrington stepped into the shop wearing a high-visibility jacket, face mask, and cap were released to the public.
Dorrington, of Fforest Glade, Newport, pleaded guilty to attempted robbery, possession of an offensive weapon, and failing to provide a specimen. The defendant also admitted the theft of Thatchers cider and food from the store.
Dorrington was also in breach of a nine-month prison sentence, suspended for 18 months, for making off without payment from 23 petrol stations between August and December 2018.
Recorder Greg Bull QC sentenced the defendant to a total of 45 months in prison. He must also pay £190 victim surcharge.
The prosecution was represented by Roger Griffiths and the defence was represented by Ben Waters.
