A ROBBER who threatened a Darwen pensioner in his home with a knife has today been jailed.

Preston Crown Courrt heard how the 74-year-old victim handed over his wallet and credit cards and attempts were then made to withdraw cash from his account.

His gold chain was also removed from his neck.

Carl Barnes, 32, of Olive Lane, Darwen,admitted robbery and other offences of obtaining property by deception and theft of a mobile phone.

He was given an indeterminate sentence for public protection.

Barnes will serve a minimum period of 28 months before he can be considered for possible parole.

A second man - the defendant's cousin -is awaiting sentence after admitting his part in the offence.

The court heard the robbery took place on May 3 and the 74-year-old man who lived alone knew Barnes' cousin vaguely.

He had reluctantly let them in and Barnes picked up a carving knife and demanded money.

He went to call for help after they left, but his telephone wires had been cut.

The mobile phone has been taken from a 15-year-old schoolboy in April 2006.

Judge Michael Byrne said Barnes had an appalling criminal record making 36 court appearances involving 60 offences.

Philip Andrews, defending, said Barnes had a long pattern of heroin abuse.