A WOULD-BE robber was found with a plastic gun and a fake beard.

Edward Stirling, 44, was found in High Acres, Banbury, with the imitation weapon, a knife, the beard, a balaclava, rope, a hammer and nails, and a number of other items.

At Oxford Crown Court on Friday, Stirling admitted having an imitation firearm with intent to commit robbery and having a bladed article.

Stirling, of Bath Road, Swindon, was remanded in custody to be sentenced on March 30.