A man threatened two bus drivers with dirty syringes in separate attacks for just a pocketful of change, a court heard.

Kieran Humphreys, 33, caught the same bus on different days and the first time got away with less than £20.

But he came unstuck the second time when the driver managed to hold Humphreys’ arms, and a passenger fought him off with a walking stick.

On Monday, May 1, 2017, Humphreys got on a bus in North Square, New Ash Green and paid the fare to Fleet Estate in Dartford.

The driver stopped the bus in Gore Road, Darenth, and Humphreys got up from his seat and walked towards the open door.

As he reached the driver, he pulled a syringe from his pocket and threatened to stab him, stating the needle was dirty.

The driver handed him £13.20 from the bus takings and approximately three pounds in loose change from his pocket.

Humphreys then got off the bus and the driver reported the incident to the police.

"Humphreys threatened to stab two bus drivers with a dirty syringe – a despicable act to steal a relatively small amount of money" - DC Rob Sircar

Just eight days later, on Tuesday, May 9, Humphreys again caught a bus from North Square.

When the bus stopped on Fleet Estate at Dartford, he demanded money by threatening the driver with the syringe.

This time, the driver managed to hold Humphreys’ arms to avoid being stabbed and a passenger pushed Humphreys with a walking stick.

Humphreys, of no fixed address, did not get any money this time, and got off the bus shouting that he had a knife.

Police examined CCTV footage and were able to identify Humphreys who was arrested four days later. The clothing he was wearing in the second offence was also seized.

Humphreys was charged with both offences and pleaded guilty to robbery at Woolwich Crown Court. He was jailed for five years.

DC Rob Sircar said: “Humphreys threatened to stab the two bus drivers with a dirty syringe – a despicable act to steal a relatively small amount of money.

“Many residents of Dartford depend on the local bus service and the drivers should be able to go about their business without fear of being attacked.

“His actions caused the victims considerable fear I would like to commend them for their courage and the witnesses for their support throughout the investigation.”