An aspiring magician from Birchington attacked and robbed a man in the town’s park just 10 days after he had been released on licence from prison for the same offence.

Robert Gibson, 19, along with his ex-girlfriend Emily Pink, 18, were part of a group who launched the attack on two men who had gone to Crispe Park to enjoy an after-work drink.

Gibson, of Prospect Road, admitted robbery and Pink, of Rowe Close, Margate, admitted common assault when they appeared before Canterbury Crown Court.

Gibson, who had seven previous convictions for 12 offences, including robbery and battery, was sent to a young offenders’ institution for 24 months.

Pink, who was 17 when she committed the assault, was given a 12-month community order.

She had previous findings of guilt for robbery, assault, criminal damage, theft and burglary.

Daniel Stevenson, prosecuting, said that on July 3 two friends went to the park with a bottle of Jack Daniels to have a drink after work.

“A group, including Gibson and Pink, came into the park and without any provocation Gibson asked the two men three or four times what they were staring at,” Mr Stevenson said.

“Other people in the group approached them and they were attacked.

“One was hit a number of times to the head by Gibson who also hit the other man.

“Pink joined in the attack, punching and kicking.

“Gibson tried to take a bag from one victim but couldn’t so took the drink and cigarettes instead.”

Interviewed by police, Gibson said he struck out in self-defence and admitted taking the alcohol and cigarettes. Pink said both victims started the violence and she denied hitting anyone.

Oliver Kirk, defending Gibson, said he gave quite a beating but did not use a weapon.

He added that drugs had been a problem in the teenage’s life but he had work available as a trainee scaffolder, although he really wanted to be a magician.

Recorder Rupert Lowe said Pink had a disgraceful record of criminal offences.

In addition to the community order she will have an electronic curfew from 8pm-6am for two months and was prohibited from any contact with Gibson for 12 months.