Durham Crown Court heard the robbery took place when a group of young people gathered outside a Chinese takeaway in the Chester-le-Street area.

Paul Currer, defending, said the 15-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, did not intend to harm his 17-year-old victim.

"He only took a handful of chips," said Mr Currer.

He added: "The air weapon was discharged afterwards by somebody else."

No one was hurt in the incident, which took place last September.
The 15-year-old admitted robbery. The court heard he has previous convictions.

Judge John Evans ordered the case to be sent back to the youth court to be sentenced.

The judge told the 15-year-old: "The fact this case is now to be dealt with by the youth panel should not be taken by you as any indication of the type of sentence.

"Robbery is always a serious matter and it may be the panel will have to consider custody."

The 15-year-old was bailed on condition he live at an address known to the court.