A man who robbed a motorcyclist armed with an axe and hammer before crashing into a garden fence has pleaded guilty.

Reece Brown, 21, of Merrylands, Laindon, pleaded guilty today to robbery, possession of a blade and driving otherwise than in accordance with a licence at Basildon Crown Court. He is due to be sentenced on Wednesday, January 3.

On Thursday October 19, a man reported at 6.30am that his scooter had been stolen overnight in Bryon Court, Laindon. His scooter was eventually found in Merrylands at 2pm with its ignition barrel missing.

The victim attempted to walk his bike home and then he was confronted by Brown armed with weapons.

Brown rode the bike away before crashing into a garden fence in High Road and running off with a head injury. He called the ambulance service for his injuries and was later arrested and charged.

Investigating officer Dc Robert Lewis, of Basildon CID, said: “The victim managed to locate his stolen motorbike and attempted to walk it way before being confronted by Brown armed with weapons.

"Brown insisted the bike was his friends, rode off and crashed into a garden fence, suffering a serious cut to his face.

"Brown, who left the bike and weapons at the scene, later claimed he was attacked so he could get treatment for his injuries. Fortunately, the story didn’t wash with paramedics who called us and he appeared at court today.”