A BRAVE Bridgwater shopkeeper tackled a robber wielding a replica gun during a drug-fuelled hold-up, a court was told.

Nilay Patel challenged one of two balaclava-clad robbers helping themselves to cash and cigarettes from Crowpill Stores in Chilton Street on January 3 - but was then beaten around the head in the raid.

Details of Mr Patel's heroism emerged at Taunton Crown Court last Friday, where Nathan Addicott, 19, of Risemoor Road, pleaded guilty to robbery and possession of an imitation firearm.

Prosecuting solicitor Caroline Bolt told the court Addicott had admitted taking a cocktail of drugs - including ecstasy and MDMA - with his co-assailant before the raid, and had played violent video game Grand Theft Auto.

She said the two then grabbed BB guns and balaclavas and decided to rob Crowpill Stores to get money to buy more drugs.

The pair entered the shop and demanded cash and cigarettes, but when Mr Patel pushed one of the men, the other robber hit him on the head with his weapon.

The two men fled with more than £500 in cash and cigarettes.

Police later matched DNA on a balaclava found in the store to Addicott and arrested him.

The court was told a second person was arrested in connection with the robbery but was released without charge.

Paul Light, defending, said Addicott had fully accepted his guilt and was now taking courses to tackle his drug problems and further his skills.

Judge Graham Hume Jones adjourned sentencing for a psychiatric report, but told Addicott he could face at least four years in prison.

Addicott, who also admitted other charges of theft, possessing cannabis and handling stolen goods, is due to be sentenced next month.