Masked man robbed garage on the A38

A MASKED man robbed terrified staff at a petrol station on the A38, police have reported.

The raider burst into the Shell garage, on the A38 at Fradley, threatening staff and escaping with cash, officers have confirmed.

Officers from Lichfield were called to the scene at 4.45pm on Sunday, following reports of a robbery at the garage at the side of the dual carriageway.

They said a masked man entered the premises, made threats to staff and fled the scene with cash.

The man is described as white, in his mid-20s, around 5ft 6ins tall and medium build, said a police spokesman.

He was wearing a long green hooded coat, black beanie hat and a black mask. He was also carrying a black bag with a stick inside.

An investigation is under way and enquiries are on-going to locate the man.

People had been speculating that the man had a firearm. However, police said this is unconfirmed and he was carrying the bag with a stick inside.

The spokesman added: “We are aware of speculation online that this man was armed with a firearm. However, at this time there is no evidence to support this and a firearm was not seen at the incident.

“We would like to reassure you that there is no suggestion of any risk to the local community.”

Any witnesses or anyone with any information is asked to message Staffordshire police on Facebook or Twitter, quoting incident number 499 of January 17, call 101 or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.