Man held a knife to group of students in failed robbery bid on Oxford street

Lawrence Hunter, of Penfold Street, London, had already admitted four counts of attempted robbery and one of having a bladed article.

At his sentencing hearing at Oxford Crown Court on Tuesday the 21-year old also admitted a separate incident of attempted burglary which took place in High Wycombe.

Outlining the attempted robbery prosecutor Alexandra Bull said the attack happened at about 2.19am on April 6.

Four students were walking home from a night out along Barracks Lane when Hunter approached them.

She said that Hunter asked the men 'what have you got for me' before pulling out a knife.

The weapon was described as a kitchen knife with a blade between three and four inches in length.

Ms Bull said that Hunter held the blade close to the men but was ultimately unsuccessful in his attempt to rob them when the men 'walked away.'

He was also sentenced yesterday for a separate incident and attempted burglary which took place in High Wycombe on July 14.

During that crime the home owner was inside when Hunter broke in.

Nothing was taken from the house but the occupant was left feeling 'paranoid' as a result.

Sentencing Judge Ian Pringle QC jailed Hunter for a total of two years and nine months. He must also pay a statutory victim surcharge.