A man from Basildon has been jailed for 11 years after being found guilty of committing an aggravated burglary at the home of a neighbour while armed with an imitation firearm.

Danny Barber, 35, of Wells Gardens, was jailed at the conclusion of a three day trial at Southend Crown Court today, Wednesday, October 29.

The burglary happened at 11pm on February 11, when Barber knocked on a neighbour’s front door and when the female resident answered he said his car had broken down and could he use her phone. When the woman went inside to wake up her husband, Barber entered the house and threatened both with the firearm, later discovered to be a BB gun.

He made demands for money, struggled with the male occupant, struck him on the head with the gun and also fired a number of shots which thankfully did not hit anyone.

The male victim, aged in his 50s, received minor injuries.

Barber was arrested three days later and charged the same day.

Investigating officer Dc Rob Lewis said: "This was an extremely frightening ordeal for the couple late at night.

"Thankfully the firearm was only a BB gun but Barber clearly demonstrated he was willing to use a gun to obtain money from the couple. The outcome of this crime could have been far worse had Barber has access to a genuine gun.

"I would like to thank the victims for the courage they have shown during the investigation and the trial and I am pleased Barber now faces a lengthy period in prison.”