A KNIFE-WIELDING mother threatened a frightened shop worker as she attempted to steal money in order to run away with her children.

Keisha Smith, of Southwick Court, Bracknell, went armed to the Martin's Convenience Store in Crownwood with two large kitchen knives, using a set of pyjamas to cover her face.

She was immediately recognised by a member of staff, who was cut by a 12-inch knife as she attempted to grab it from the thief.

Sandra Beck, prosecuting at Reading Crown Court on Wednesday, June 6, said: "She went to the store on October 26 last year with a scarf covering her face.

"She is a known shoplifter and has been banned from this particular shop and she has been dealt with on a number of occasions."

A struggle broke out before a good samaritan came to her rescue, forcing the 25-year-old to pull out a second knife.

She was pinned against the shop window while the terrified employee called for help and Smith screamed that she was being sexually assaulted in order to escape.

The court heard how the young mother acted out of desperation after being told she would have her children taken away from her.

Smith, who was serving a community order at the time, was sentenced to three years in prison.

Judge Maria Lamb added: "You armed yourself with a couple of knives which were both pretty terrifying and the shop worker absolutely terrified.

"You are still young and you have got a chance to make the best of your time to start fresh and be a good role model to your children."

A restraining order was made, banning her from entering the shop, while an order was made for the destruction of the weapons.

Francesca Anderson, mitigating, explained how Smith had endured a tough upbringing and made a 'stupid decision' in order to keep her children close by.

She added: "These children are her world and she does not feel whole without them.

"It is a hard road, but she lives for her children."