A MAN who robbed a Post Office told police that he wanted to be arrested and that it had been a cry for help, a court heard.

Paul Dowbekin was jailed for three years when he admitted robbing Westleigh Post Office in Leigh, where he was well-known to staff.

Wearing a hat, Dowbekin burst into the shop armed with a wrench and demanded cash.

He went behind the counter but failed to open the till. He stole cigarettes and tobacco but dropped most of them as he left.

Later, the Postmaster identified Dowbekin from CCTV film from cameras inside the shop.

Dowbekin, aged 26, of George Street, Heywood, admitted robbery at Bolton Crown Court.