The man accused of six robberies in November last year and May this year, has been sentenced to three and a-half years in prison after pleading guilty in the Dunedin district court yesterday.

Matthew Leonard Leith (32) told the judge he was remorseful for his actions but he had suffered hard economic times and needed the money to pay off debts.

Leith never brandished a weapon in the six offences here in Dunedin and Mosgeil, but his actions were threatening and those involved have said they have suffered emotionally.

A total of $7650 was taken, but due to Leiths economic situation, he has not been ordered to pay it back.