A MAN who attempted to carry out a knifepoint robbery during a five-day binge on cocaine and alcohol has been jailed for two years and nine months.

Andrew Parker, of Organ Street, Leigh, was arrested after an ex-girlfriend recognised a CCTV image of him following the incident at the Spar shop in Scot Lane, Aspull.

When arrested, Parker, 25, said he had been taking cocaine and drinking heavily for six years after becoming depressed following his mum’s death.

Parker, a railway worker, said he could not remember five days because of cocaine and alcohol — but when shown the CCTV image he agreed that it was him.

Charles Lander, prosecuting, told Liverpool Crown Court that at about 8am on December 23 last year Parker went to the Spar shop and chose some mints. But when the female assistant opened the till to give Parker change, he reached over the counter and demanded money.

She slammed the till shut and then saw he was pointing a 10in knife at her, so she summoned assistance. Parker left and claimed he had only been “joking”.

The same day, Parker’s ex-partner saw a news story about the incident along with the photograph. She went to the police. Parker was arrested the next day.

Louise McCloskey, defending, said that Parker, who pleaded guilty to attempted robbery and possessing a knife, “is deeply ashamed and remorseful”.