Would-be east Belfast robber '˜had drunk 24 cans of beer'

Scott McCormick claims to have no memory of the alleged incident on Saturday morning where he was wrestled to the ground inside the Co-op shop.

The 28-year-old appeared before Belfast Magistrates’ Court charged with attempted robbery, threats to kill, common assault, possession of an offensive weapon and attempted grievous bodily harm with intent.

McCormick, of Lichfield Avenue in the city, allegedly entered the store on the Beersbridge Road and went behind the counter area.

A prosecution lawyer claimed he produced a knife and shouted “Open the f****** till”.

According to her account he lunged at a man working there, trying to stab him around the head area a number of times.

The alleged victim managed to grab the attacker’s arms and take the knife from him during the struggle.

But the court heard CCTV footage shows McCormick punching the cashier about the body and to the jaw.

Another member of staff helped restrain the would-be robber until police arrived.

While he was being restrained McCormick allegedly shouted: “I know where you are, I’m going to kill you.”

District Judge Desmond Perry was told the defendant later claimed to have no recollection of what happened, having taken 24 tins of beer.

Defence barrister Richard McConkey said: “It wasn’t simply abusing alcohol, there were tablets as well.”

Mr McConkey contended that could have impacted on his client’s conduct and memory.

Bail was refused, however, due to the risks of reoffending and interference with witnesses.

McCormick was remanded in custody to appear again by video link on February 15.