A ROBBER who stormed into bookmakers has admitted threatening staff into handing over cash using a fake gun.

Suleyman Duman used the replica weapon to force employees at outlets in Whitley and Reading town centre to give out money.

The 33-year-old from Brayford Road, Whitley, hit the bookmakers over the course of one weekend.

He robbed a Ladbrokes in Basingstoke Road on November 28 where a customer was also threatened with the fake gun.

A William Hill in Queen Victoria Street was targeted the following day.

Appearing at Reading Crown Court on Monday Duman admitted to two robberies, two counts of possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause fear of violence and one count of being concerned in the supply of a Class B drug – cannabis.

He was arrested on December 5 and charged the following day.

Speaking following the conviction, investigating officer Det Con Ben Sherriff, from Reading Force CID, said: "I am pleased Duman has recognised the severity of his offences.

"These were distressing incidents in which members of staff at the bookmakers were threatened with what could easily have been perceived to have been a real gun.

"The victims can now be reassured the offender has been identified, convicted and is now in custody."

Duman was remanded in custody to be sentenced at the same court on February 2.