A KNIFE-wielding Ipswich yob who attempted to rob a man cowering in his van for safety is starting a jail term today.

A KNIFE-wielding Ipswich yob who attempted to rob a man cowering in his van for safety is starting a jail term today.

Fraser Ward, of Raeburn Road, was sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison when he appeared at Ipswich Crown Court.

The 21-year-old, who has a history of violence, harassment and threatening behaviour, pleaded guilty at an earlier hearing to the botched robbery.

Prosecutor Hugh Vass told the court Ward's victim came out of the house he shared with his parents in Bramford Road to check his van was secure at around 9.15pm on January 15.

The man feared for his safety after being approached by Ward - who had been drinking - and locked himself in his vehicle. Ward tried to talk to the man through a window and then attempted to get into the van through one of the doors.

During the incident Ward brandished a knife and demanded the victim hand over his keys.

However, he left the scene after being joined by another man.

The court heard Ward was arrested a short time later. He was taken to Ipswich police station and was subsequently picked out as the offender by his victim at an identity parade.

When Ward was questioned in custody he told police he had been drinking all day and had no recollection of attempting to rob anyone.

The knife he used was never found.

When Ward was arrested police found him in possession of amphetamine sulphate.

Mr Vass said Ward had previous convictions for threatening behaviour, possessing an offensive weapon, damaging property, threatening police officers and harassing people.

Ward also had two convictions for actual bodily harm to his girlfriend in 2006 and 2007.

Judge David Goodin sentenced Ward to two-and-a-half years in prison for the attempted robbery and 28 days for possession amphetamine sulphate. The sentences will run concurrently.