A YOUNG shop assistant was left terrified when she was robbed in Worcester city centre as she and a companion went for an after-work drink, a court was told.

Drunken Richard Dunn targeted them in Keystones cafe and bar, in Copenhagen Street, and followed them into the street where he threatened them near the Guildhall.

Seventeen-year-old Jennifer Gomm handed over her handbag containing £40 in cash and bank cards, said Gareth Walters, prosecuting.

Dunn, aged 27, of Broadmeadow, Droitwich, who was convicted of robbery after a three-day trial at Worcester Crown Court, was jailed for two years.

Mr Walters said the offence took place in the late afternoon on December 20, 2009, when there were few people around. Dunn had first gone into Keystones and made abusive comments to the staff.

He followed Miss Gomm and Jamie Hodgetts into the street and was arrested after he was identified on CCTV footage. The court heard he had 19 previous convictions for 31 offences.

Michael Aspinall, defending, maintained that the robbery was not planned and no violence or weapon was used.

Dunn’s parents were supporting him and were putting money away so that he could start a new life away from the area when he was released.

His partner, who had suffered a miscarriage while he was in custody, was also standing by him.

Recorder Roger Evans said the young couple had been put through an horrific experience. It was dark and the streets were deserted and they could call upon no-one for help.

He said: “This was a serious street mugging in the centre of Worcester when citizens should be able to walk about without being molested.”