YOUTHS involved in one or both of two robberies within a few weeks have been jailed for a total of 15 years.

Anthony Edward Etherington, Stephen Paul Liam Jackson and an unknown accomplice forcibly took a car from a man with learning difficulties after turning up at his home demanding a lift into Bishop Auckland in the early hours of June 27.

Martin Towers, prosecuting, said on reaching the town centre the 53-year-old victim was threatened and a struggle ensued.

One of his arms was bitten and he was hit over the head with a half-brick, before they grabbed the keys and drove off in the Ford Focus.

Although the victim picked out Etherington at an identity parade and Jackson’s dna was found on the car radio, neither made admissions in interview.

While on bail Jackson took part in an attempted robbery at a convenience store in Manor Road, St Helen Auckland, on August 25, when three masked figures burst in at 10.10pm.

One hit the owner’s 31-year-old brother, who stopped them reaching the till, with a large stick across the head, arm and body. They fled empty-handed.

Police arrested Sam David Westwood and Ryan Luke Reed nearby and they confessed and named Jackson as an accomplice.

Reed revealed he and Jackson planned it on Facebook, recruiting Westwood, who struck the blows.

Mr Towers said Jackson went on to steal alcohol and attack a man at an engagement party, again while on bail, on October 7.

Etherington, previously of Woodside, Witton Park, who has been in custody since July 14, admitted robbery.

The court heard that although only 21 he had served several custodial sentences.

Chris Baker, for Etherington, said it was a "spur of the moment" decision to take the car.

Judge Guy Whitburn described Etherington as "dangerous" and imposed an extended sentence of eight years - five in custody and three on licence.

Jackson, 20, of St Luke’s Close, Bishop Auckland, admitted robbery, attempted robbery, theft and assault.

Graeme Gaston, mitigating, said Jackson, who was sent to a young offenders’ institution for four years, had "simply exploded this summer".

Reed and Westwood, both 18 and of Old Hall Farm Road, St Helen Auckland, each admitted attempted robbery.

Mr Baker, for Reed, and Shaun Dryden, for Westwood, said it was their first conviction.

Judge Whitburn imposed custodial sentence of 18 months on both.

As Westwood was only 17 at the time, he will receive a detention and training order, while Reed will be sent to a young offenders’ institution.