A KNIFEPOINT robber, whose crime spree was ended when he has captured by two ambulance men at the Royal Gwent, is beginning a three-year-prison sentence.

Darren James Healey, 20, of Dolphin Street, Pill, Newport, previously pleaded guilty to robbing three teenagers and attempting to rob another in the city's Belle Vue Park on June 6 this year.

He had also pleaded guilty to possessing a knife and an offensive weapon.

Prosecuting, Saf Ibrahim said Healey had been drinking cider in the park that afternoon, and decided to rob the group and use their money buy some more.

He pulled out a five-inch steak knife and demanded that the frightened 15-17 year-olds hand over phones, money, and wallets.

Shane Spencer, who was with Healey, pulled him away, but he threatened him too before running off toward the Royal Gwent where shortly afterwards he told a receptionist he wanted to see a psychiatric doctor.

A member of public had alerted hospital security staff about a man in the grounds with a knife.

Healey was then seen in the ambulance bay and chased by police.

Martin Cross, a paramedic on duty that evening, grabbed Healey in a bear hug, and with colleague Robert Bevan restrained him until police arrested him.

Mr Cross said he had been pleased to be able to help, and is pleased that justice has been done.

Healey was also found in possession of a screwdriver, which he said was for protection.

Defending, David Maunder, told Newport Crown Court Healey had been confused and intoxicated due to alcohol and drugs. He had a troubled past, receiving little aftercare since leaving foster care, and had also been homeless.

Mr Maunder described Healey as a “damaged young man,” but “not damaged beyond repair” and who at heart is a respecting, hardworking young man.

Judge Philip Richards sentenced Healey to three years in a young offenders' institution on each robbery charge and for the attempted robbery, and to 16 months each for possessing a knife and possessing an offensive weapon.

The sentences will run concurrently.