A teenager who pointed an imitation gun to the head of a University of East Anglia student and tried to rob him was today given two years' custody.

A teenager who pointed an imitation gun to the head of a University of East Anglia student and tried to rob him was today given two years' custody.

Ashley Dowe, 18, told Riza Keles to hand over his money. Mr Keles stumbled and shouted to frighten off his attacker.

Norwich Crown Court heard that Dowe, who was with another man, ran off but was traced by a drinks bottle which he left behind and had his DNA on it.

He was also picked out by the victim on an ID parade.

Dowe, of Clarkson Road, Norwich, admitted attempting to rob Mr Keles last October 9, possessing an imitation firearm and common assault on Mr Keles.

Sentencing him to two years in a young offenders institution Judge Alisdair Darroch told him: “Anything to do with firearms whether real or not is taken extremely seriously by the courts. This was a frightening attack on someone who was simply going about their business. He was left shocked by what happened.”

Michael Clare, in mitigation, said: “It was something of an impulsive act of a teenager showing off to his friend. He did not realise the gravity of what he was embarking on.”

Dowe was extremely sorry for what happened and had written a letter to the victim explaining how remorseful he was.

He said Dowe suffered from epilepsy and had the support of his family who had accompanied him to court. “He will find any period of custody extremely difficult.”