A man is facing a “substantial” jail sentence for an attempted robbery and knife crime.

Harry Dial was given the warning at Maidstone Crown Court on Monday when he admitted attempting to rob Justin Winsley in Grosvenor Road, Tunbridge Wells, on January 18.

He also admitted having a kitchen knife in Liptraps Lane in the town on the same date and stealing a bottle of wine from a Coop store.

The 21-year-old, of no fixed address, denied threatening Mr Winsley with a knife and the charge was left on the court file.

Prosecutor Martin Yale said Mr Winsley felt something cold against his neck during the attempted robbery and Dial claimed it was a piece of broken glass and not a knife.

Mr Yale said Dial had no previous convictions, but there were three cautions for violence.

Tom Stern, defending, said a housing association last year referred Dial to the mental health team because of concern he was struggling to cope and thought there ought to be a psychiatric review.

“The community health team made a judgement there were no significant risks or matters which needed their attention at that time and suggested referral to his GP,” said Mr Stern.

“His family speak in pretty strong terms that there have been some issues. They have expressed this at various times in his formative years.

“He comes from a difficult family situation. There has been no detailed psychiatric assessment until now.”

Adjourning sentence until April 12, Judge Philip Statman said: “The public needs to know whether there is any issue with dangerousness to be considered.

“For offences of this kind you are facing a substantial prison sentence. Do you appreciate that?”

Dial replied: “Yes, I do.”