AN AXE was used to threaten a Wiltshire camper by a thief who demanded he hand over cash.

But the 48-year-old victim fought back and, in the ensuing struggle, the pair tumbled into a fishing lake.

Now, robber Dale Stagg has been sentenced to three years and eight months imprisonment after pleading guilty to attempted robbery, possession of an offensive weapon and theft.

The 38-year-old of The Lye, Seend, visited a fishing lake near Bradford-upon-Avon in January, threatening a 48-year-old man with an axe.

He shouted at his victim, who was camping at the site, and demanded he hand over money.

When the man fought back, a struggle ensued and both men fell into the lake. Stagg made off, leaving behind a balaclava and an axe at the scene.

The victim returned to his tent and noticed his mobile phone had been stolen. An app installed on the phone was used to trace Stagg to Seend.

Det Con Aaron Rowe, of Melksham CID, said: "Stagg attended the location brandishing an axe - he had every intention of causing fear and intimidation to those at the site.

"He was aggressive and threatening as he launched his attack on his victim, who fortunately, was not left with any serious injuries."