A MAN who robbed a bookmaker and asked for two further crimes to be considered at the time of sentencing, has been jailed.

Ishtiaq Ali, 34, of Belfast Avenue, Slough, was sentenced to a total of eight-and-a-half years at Reading Crown Court yesterday after he pleaded guilty to one count of robbery, possession of a knife/blade/sharp pointed article in a public place and possession of an imitation firearm.

The three counts relate to a robbery at Paddy Power Bookmakers, Grasemere Parade, Slough, which happened on January 18.

During the incident, Ali, who wore a face covering and was in possession of a kitchen knife and an imitation firearm, robbed an employee of cash.

During yesterday’s hearing, Ali also asked for a further two other offences to be taken into consideration at the time of sentencing.

They included a robbery at News Express, Knolton Way, Slough, which happened on December 28, last year, whereby cash and cigarettes were stolen and a burglary at Kays supermarket, Oatlands Drive, Slough, during the early hours of January 1 this year, where cigarettes were stolen.

Det Con Andy Wroe, of East Berkshire CID, said: “I am pleased with the sentence which reflects the seriousness of Ali’s actions.

“I hope that it will also act as a deterrent to anyone who thinks it is acceptable to be involved in such criminality, as such behaviour will not be tolerated by police in Slough.”