Aron Parkinson has been sentenced to three years in prison after pleading guilty to attempted robbery and possession of an imitation firearm.

Parkinson, 34 and of Station Road in Clacton, admitted both offences at Chelmsford Crown Court on February 21.

Today he has been given a three year jail sentence for attempted robbery and a three year term for possession of an imitation firearm.

The sentences will run concurrently.

Essex Police were called at 5.30pm on January 22 to reports that a man had entered the Post Office in High Street in Clacton and had verbally threatened staff members during an attempt to steal cash.

The man was in possession of an imitation firearm and left the shop on foot without any cash.

Parkinson was arrested and charged on January 23.

DC Luke Howard Clacton CID, who led the enquiries, said: “Aron Parkinson terrified the members of Post Office staff.

“The staff member he approached should be commended for his bravery in how he reacted to Parkinson when he demanded the security door to the safe room be opened.

“At this point, Parkinson was holding what the staff member believed to be a handgun.

“This custodial sentence reflects the seriousness of his actions and the effect this has had on those present at the time”.