A man who threatened a terrified off-licence owner with a knife after vaulting over her counter and demanding cash has been sentenced to an extra seven years in jail.
Lee Gorst, 34, was already serving a 13-year sentence for attempted murder imposed in 2013, but had been out on licence since January 27, 2020.
Among Gorst's 15 further convictions and 21 offences was one in 2008 for possession of an imitation firearm, burglary and vehicle, burglary and matters concerning drugs.
He appeared at Manchester Crown Court, Crown Square for sentencing for the knifepoint raid at the California Wine store on North Road, Clayton, just yards from his own home on the same street on June 13.
Gorst had admitted charges of robbery and threatening another person with bladed article, namely a knife.
Chloe Fordham, prosecuting, said Gorst had entered the shop at 12.20pm and bought a bar of chocolate, before returning 20 minutes later, telling the proprietor he wanted a bottle of wine.
"So she went to get one for him," said Ms Fordham. "But he jumped over the counter and pulled out a knife and said 'give me all your money'."
In the draw was a bag full of coins (£50) and they were taken by Gorst saying: "I said I knew you had the money."
He made good his escape but he was recognised by witnesses and on CCTV.
The proprietor later told police: "No-one has the right to rob me of my money."
Judge Patrick Field QC said the robbery was planned and the victim was targeted because he knew she was alone in the shop.
Defending, Patrick Harris said it was accepted that there was 'a degree of planning' in the robbery.
He went on: "But this was not a sophisticated robbery. In fact it was a clumsy one whereby the defendant was bound to be apprehended.
"The defendant was addicted to drugs at the time. This (offence) was committed in relation to that addition and the requirement to finance (Gorst's) use of heroin."
Sentencing Gorst, Judge Field said: "It must've been an utterly terrifying, if not petrifying, experience for the proprietor who must've feared for her safety.
Gorst was given a custodial sentence of four-and-a-half years and an extended licence period of two-and-a-half years, making a total of seven years, 'for the protection of the public' said Judge Field.
The judge told Gorst: "You are indeed a dangerous offender. I am satisfied that there is a significant risk to members of the public of serious harm from you."
