A RAIDER who took part in an attack during which a man was stabbed three times in his own home has been jailed indefinitely.

Craig Greatorex, 30, at first claimed he was being forced to take part and then that he had been recruited as the "muscle man" for the "sophisticated" and "well-planned" robbery.

He alleged he did not know the householder was going to be stabbed by his accomplice during the raid, Burnley Crown Court heard.

Greatorex (right) knocked on the door of victim George Sharples because he knew him, allowing easy access to the property. His accomplice was wearing a hood and a scarf and was armed with a knife to put pressure on Mr Sharples, who handed over £110 cash, the court was told.

The court was told how the defendant claimed to the victim he had been injured by his "ruthless" accomplice to try and get Mr Sharples, who was with his partner and baby, to hand over the money. He alleged he was too scared to do anything about Mr Sharples being threatened and stabbed in case he got the same treatment.

The defendant was convicted of robbery by a jury. Greatorex, of Alexander Close, Accrington, must serve three years and 193 days before the parole board can consider his release.

Recorder Mukhtar Hussain QC told the defendant the evidence against him was overwhelming. He said the victim was petrified by his ordeal and the defendant had been more than a willing party.

Tim Brennand, defending, said Greatorex now accepted he was guilty. He had been playing a very dangerous game and felt he had to go along with the company he was keeping. He owed money and was heavily involved in drugs.