A machete-wielding robber has been jailed for five years.

Graham Purser, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to robbery when he appeared before Maidstone Crown Court yesterday.

The 33-year-old was arrested following a robbery at the Threshers store in Parrock Road, Gravesend on May 20.

Purser threatened the cashier with a machete and demanded money. The cashier handed over around £200 in cash to Purser and he fled the scene.

CCTV images of the offence were released following the raid and Purser was arrested in Princes Road, Gravesend on Wednesday June 21.

Detective Sergeant Fiona Bitters: "We are pleased with this sentence and feel it reflects the severity of the crime.

"Purser subjected the cashier to a terrifying ordeal and I hope that this prison sentence reassures the community that we will utilise our specialised departments to secure an arrest and put people before the court."