A TEENAGER punched two restaurant workers as he tried to steal a cash register from McDonald’s, a court heard.

Akib Bashir, aged 19, went into the restaurant in Chorley Old Road on March 24 at about 6.40pm and was seen to be “messing around” with one of the tills on the staff side of the counter.

Bolton Crown Court heard how the defendant was told he was not allowed to be behind the counter, but then went on to ask how to open up the till.

Kitchen worker Thomas Strickland then tried to stop him from entering the kitchen, but Bashir punched him in the cheek.

His colleague Sarah Whittaker tried to stop him and he punched her in the head.

He was then restrained until the police arrived.

Bashir pleaded guilty to one count of attempted burglary and two counts of assault by beating.

Saul Brody, prosecuting, said: “Mr Strickland tried to block the defendant from the kitchen area. He punched him in the left cheek with his right fist.

“Ms Whittaker pulled his jumper to stop him but he punched her in the left side of her head.”

Colin Buckle, defending, said a psychiatric report had been completed.

Judge Peter Davies gave Bashir a three year community order and an 18 month supervision order.

He must also live at St Joseph’s Approved Premises in Millers Street, Eccles, for 18 months.

The court heard that Bashir had spent seven months in custody, while awaiting sentence.

Sentencing, Judge Davies said: “You have done the equivalent of 14 months. Even taking into account your guilty plea it would seem that you have almost been punished enough.”