Matthew Morrison jailed over Irvine knife raids
A man has been jailed for four years for using a knife during a robbery and attempted robbery in North Ayrshire.
Matthew Morrison admitted threatening bus driver Craig Harley and robbing him of £40 in Irvine on 7 April.
The 23-year-old also pleaded guilty to assaulting Pauline McHugh and attempting to rob her at Sloanes Jewellers, Irvine, on 11 June.
At the High Court in Glasgow, Morrison was told he will be monitored for four years on his release from prison.
Advocate depute Richard Goddard, prosecuting, told the court: "The bus driver, a 50-year-old man, was having a cigarette standing outside his bus at 4.25pm when the accused approached him.
'I'll chib you'
"The accused asked Mr Harley for a cigarette and he refused to give one.
"A few seconds later the accused returned holding a dagger-style knife in his right hand and told Mr Harley: 'Give me your money or I'll chib you.'"
The court was told that the bus driver raised his hands in the air and said: "Have it."
During the second robbery, Morrison entered Sloanes Jewellers and asked to see a chain on display in the window.
He then left saying he would speak to his girlfriend about it.
Morrison returned a short time later and asked to see seven bracelets valued at about £800.
Seconds later he grabbed the items from the shop assistant's hand, but she fought back and he fled.
The court heard that Morrison has two previous convictions for assault and robbery.
Judge Lady Stacey jailed him for four years and branded him a danger to the public.