Witness appeal to armed robbery in Astwood Bank (From Redditch Advertiser)
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Witness appeal to armed robbery in Astwood Bank
6:10pm Monday 29th October 2012 in News
STAFF at a convenience store in Redditch have been threatened by a masked man armed with a hammer and knife.
The man, who had his face covered with white cloth or a scarf, stole money and cigarettes from the Bank Convenience Store on Feckenham Road in Astwood Bank last weekend.
The robber entered the store and threatened a member of staff with a hammer as well as a knife before demanded that he hand over money and cigarettes.
The cashier handed over the items which the offender placed in a red plastic sports bag before fleeing the store and heading off in the direction of Evesham Road.
The offender, described as white, in his late teens to early 20s, of slim build and just under 6ft in height, was wearing black tracksuit bottoms, a black jacket and a black flat cap.
Detective Inspector Vikki Reay, in charge of the investigation into the armed robbery, said: "Although this is an isolated incident, it has clearly been frightening for the member of staff."
Police are now appealing for any information on the incident and for witnesses to come forward.
They are especially eager to speak to a customer who was in the convenience store before the robbery occurred and who may have witnessed the offender entering the store.
Detective Constable Dave Jennings, of Redditch CID, added: "The offender entered the store just as a customer was leaving so we are eager to trace this person as they may be able to help us identify the robber.
"We urgently want to hear from anyone who may have seen this man on his way to or from the store."
The robbery happened last Sunday, October 28 at about 7.20am.
Anyone with information is being asked to call detectives at Redditch Police Station on the non-emergency number 101, quoting incident reference 205-S-281012.
Information can also be given to the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
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