A WOMAN using a subway under the A666 leading to Churchgate in Bolton town centre was confronted by a woman brandishing a bladed weapon.

Karen Birchall demanded Susan Brabin's handbag but the brave woman resisted even though she was terrified.

Birchall then threatened her with either a knife or a pair of scissors and warned her: "Give me your money or I will stick this in you."

She was then threatened by a man who ordered her to hand over her bag as Mrs Brabin tried to escape.

But Allan Burke grabbed hold of her handbag strap and both ran off. Mrs Brabin immediately cancelled her bank cards and reported it to the police.

Birchall, aged 25, of Bromwich Street and Burke, aged 27, of Duke Street, Bolton, appeared at Bolton Crown Court for sentence for robbery. Judge Martin Steiger jailed the pair for three years.

Burke had a long criminal record including offences of robbery, attempted robbery, burglaries, thefts, handling and assault with intent to rob. He had served an eight year sentence for robberies and other offences.

Birchall also had a long string of convictions for prostitution, shoplifting, theft, harassment and common assault.