Two ‘predatory’ robbers who threatened a teenage boy with an imitation gun and knife and broke his nose have been jailed.

Daniel Adam McHugh, 24, and Ryan Michael Woolley, 24, consumed a cocktail of booze and drugs before targetting the 16-year-old boy as he walked with friends, the court heard.

McHugh, of Coppice Road, Poynton, was found guilty of robbery, possession of an imitation firearm and possession of a knife after a trial. He was jailed for six years.

Woolley, of Weller Avenue, Poynton, admitted the same three offences and was jailed for four years.

Philip Clemo, prosecuting, told Chester Crown Court that the robbery took place outside McHugh’s home in Poynton on January 24.

He said: “McHugh approached three lads and had his dog with them. He spoke to them in a threatening manner. He said that there were fields nearby where people go missing.

“Woolley appeared holding a seven inch knife. The lads understandably decided to make a run for it. The victim didn’t manage to escape. McHugh punched him square in the face and he fell to the floor.

“The injury he suffered was a nasal deformity which needed surgery. Woolley then held the knife to the victim’s throat. The victim feared for his life. Woolley made the victim hand over his phone, keys and wallet.

“McHugh then produced a handgun. It was an imitation, a BB gun, but nevertheless the victim wasn’t able to tell the difference. He began waving it around and then pointed it at the victim’s head. At this time he also had the knife at his throat. Woolley then gave the victim his bank cards back and told him he was ‘being nice’.”

Rachel White, defending McHugh, said: “I cannot polish the offence. It is disgraceful, terrifying and shocking but there is light at the end of the tunnel for Mr McHugh is making positive changes in his life.”

Milena Bennett, defending Woolley, said: “He was drunk and his mind was disturbed after taking two grams of cocaine. He was given a knife and went along with it.”

Recorder David Williams said the pair had acted like ‘predators’ adding: “You armed yourself with a knife and a BB gun, and had a Staffordshire Bull Terrier dog capable of being intimidating.

“The victim sustained a broken nose, had a knife held against him and a BB gun in his face.

“It was a terrifying experience.”