A SHOP assistant, who was threatened and pushed to the floor by an armed robber, is to be asked if she wants to meet her attacker.

The woman was the victim of Raymond Bell, who struck at the newsagents in West Cornforth, on January 20.

Bell, 55, of Maughan Close, entered the shop carrying a large hunting knife and a baseball bat.

Having uttered threats, he then pushed the assistant to the floor before grabbing the till and fleeing the premises.

Appearing at a plea hearing at Durham Crown Court, Bell admitted charges of robbery, possessing an offensive weapon and having an article with a blade or a point.

Once Bell’s pleas were tended, Shaun Dryden, prosecuting, told the court: “I understand the defendant wishes to engage in Restorative Justice and a representative from the programme will now speak to the injured party and a report can be prepared for the court over her feelings about going through that process.”

Zoe Passfield, for Bell, told the court: “It’s right to say he is very keen to take part in this process, but he’s well aware either way he will be remaining in custody.”

Should the victim agree to it, a supervised meeting can be arranged under the Restorative Justice scheme.

Deputy Circuit Judge Paul Worsley QC told Bell: “Be under no illusions, whatever the report says about that, you will be going to custody.”

Bell will remain on remand in custody until the sentencing hearing, on March 19