A Suffolk man has been warned by a judge that he could be facing an immediate prison term when he is sentenced next month for an offence of robbery.

James Batchelor, of Dunster Drive, Haverhill, appeared at Ipswich Crown Court on Thursday, January 12, for a plea and trial preparation hearing.

The 47-year-old pleaded guilty to robbery and having a knife in Queen’s Way, Haverhill, on March 18, 2021.

Judge Nicola Talbot-Hadley adjourned the case until February 24 for a pre-sentence report to be prepared.

She told Batchelor, who has a background of drug and mental health issues: "You must be aware this is a custodial case and guidelines suggest immediate custody.

"However, I’m going to ask for a pre-sentence report so that I, or the judge that sentences you, will be fully aware of the background."