TWO teenagers narrowly escaped immediate custodial sentences over crimes committed on a night of violence and disorder.

Kieran Guest and Kyle Zelinka, both 18, robbed two younger teenagers, of a mobile phone, keys and a bank card after initially engaging them in conversation, in Peterlee, on November 20.

Durham Crown Court heard a short time later Guest and Zelinka damaged a door at McColl’s convenience store in the town when a male assistant barricaded the door to prevent them getting in as he believed they were seeking to take alcohol.

Guest, of Middle Street, Blackhall, and Zelinka, of Station Road, Shotton Colliery, both admitted robbery and damaging property.

Barristers for the pair said it was not planned and no-one was physically hurt.

Judge Jonathan Carroll imposed 20-month custodial sentences on both, suspended for two years. Zelinka must also attend 30 probation activity days and do 200 hours’ unpaid work. Guest was also given a six-month drug rehabilitation requirement.