A bungling robber who tried to hold up a post office with a water pistol was caught by police 20 minutes later.

Officers were called to Seasalter Post Office, near Whitstable , after a report of an armed robbery.

Callum Stewart had put a black bag over his hand whilst holding the water pistol and threatened to shoot someone on the evening of April 7.

But he left the Joy Lane store empty-handed after brave staff told him to get out as the police had been called.

Officers soon apprehended Stewart nearby after they were given a good description of the him, including distinctive tattoos he had.

He was searched and admitted it had been a water pistol he had used. He also had a kitchen knife on him.

Stewart, of Lucerne Drive, Whitstable, was charged the next day with attempted robbery and possession of a bladed article.

He pleaded guilty to the charges at Canterbury Crown Court and was jailed for two years and eight months.

Investigating officer PC Sam Ings-Kemsley said: "To be in your place of work late at night and confronted by someone demanding money and pointing something at you which they are claiming is a gun, is a frightening experience.

"At that moment, you don’t know what could happen or what that person is capable of.

"Callum Stewart is a dangerous and selfish individual who played on people’s fears to try and steal.

"It was important he was identified and stopped as quickly as possible to ensure he couldn’t try this tactic on anyone else. I wish the victims all the best and hope they feel reassured by the court result."

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