Staff left ‘distraught’ after robber kicked store door open and took cigs

POLICE have released an image as part of an appeal after a Tesco Express was robbed late at night, leaving staff “distraught”.

It was reported that a man kicked the shop door open and pushed a staff member as he entered Tesco Express in The Crescent, Bilsthorpe, at around 11pm on Thursday, October 8.

The man then demanded money from a woman and, when he was told there was none, demanded cigarettes. The woman was pushed towards the cigarette cupboard and the man filled a carrier bag full of cigarettes, before leaving on foot.

The force has also released a description of the alleged offender.

Detective Constable India Woodrow, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “This was a fear-provoking incident which left the staff members distraught.

“The store has also been left out of pocket due to the stolen cigarettes and we are keen to speak to anyone who may have been in The Crescent or surrounding areas or entered the store just before it closed on Thursday night and saw someone acting suspiciously.

“We have now issued a picture of a man who we would like to speak to in connection with the incident. He has been described as white, around 5ft 7ins, slim build and wearing a dark green hoodie with black sleeves and black hood.

“We are also appealing for anyone who notices any local residents selling cheap or suspicious English cigarettes or tobacco.

“We are also keen to speak to those who may have dash-cam footage if you were driving in the area at that time. We do not tolerate this sort of behaviour and we are determined to bring this man to justice.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101.