A mentally ill 37-year-old man who committed two knife-point robberies in Clacton will be sentenced after medical reports have been prepared on him.

Before Ipswich Crown Court today for a plea hearing was Simon Harrigan, of Granville Road, Clacton, who pleaded guilty to stealing cash during a robbery at Best One newsagents in High Street and stealing cash during another robbery at the Coral betting shop in Station Road.

The offences happened within a few hours of each other on November 4 last year.

Harrigan also admitted threatening two people with a knife during the robberies.

Judge David Goodin adjourned the case until February 28 for medical reports to be prepared on Harrigan and remanded him to Edward House at the Linden Centre, Chelmsford.

Peter Gair, prosecuting, said although Harrigan suffered from a mental disorder he was fit to plead.

Folashade Abiodun, for Harrigan, told the court a bed was available at Edward House for her client.

Investigating officer Dc Robert Dines, of Clacton CID, said: “Harrigan carried out two violent robberies where he grabbed innocent members of staff and held a large kitchen knife against them while using threats of violence.

“He used his size to overpower his victims while terrified customers watched on. In each incident Harrigan left with hundreds of pounds.

“Thanks to town centre door staff and the prompt response by our officers, Harrigan was arrested, charged and put before the courts.”