Co-op assault
POLICE are investigating an attack on a Co-op member of staff in Shepshed when they were hit in the head by a customer who had been asked for ID while trying to buy an energy drink.
The shocking incident happened at the Anson Road store on Wednesday (July 22). After hitting a member of staff in the head, the attacker attempted to leave the store with a drink without paying, then brandished a wrench and shouted verbal threats at Co-op staff, before leaving the store.
This incident, came just days after a member of staff was verbally abused, physically attacked and then robbed while he lay injured on the floor in an unprovoked attacked at the Markfield Food Store.
Now the Anson Road store manager has pledged that they will not let any wouldbe criminals stop them providing vital support to their community.
Ben Birdsall, decided to speak out to send the message that he and his staff will not tolerate any kind of abuse, threat or attack and they will continue to go above and beyond to support their local community during these uncertain times.
Ben said: “The colleague is doing really well, the support he has had from the business and colleagues alike has been second to none.
“He is currently at home resting, with the hope of returning next week. He will also be given the necessary help he needs on his return.
“I would just like to thank everybody that helped us during this difficult time. The support network has been fantastic.”
The retailer is currently campaigning for better protection for shopworkers and reminded any would-be criminal that it has a ‘zero tolerance’ approach to any criminal behaviour towards colleagues.
Ben added: “Abuse cannot and will not be tolerated. These colleagues are at the heart of our communities and are mothers, fathers, brothers and sisters.
“They come to work because they enjoy the job and they do not deserve to feel threatened or abused on a daily basis.
“I’m working hard with the team to make sure the store is a safe, calm and comfortable environment for community.”
The attack was condemned by Loughborough and Shepshed MP Jane Hunt.
She said: “I was very sorry to hear of the incident at Central England Co-op in Shepshed. Any abuse or violence directed at store staff is completely unacceptable and should not be tolerated in any circumstances. That is why I support the Co-op’s zero tolerance approach against this type of abhorrent behaviour.
“Staff in stores continue to operate despite extremely challenging circumstances and deserve nothing but praise. My best wishes go out to the store member involved and hope that the preparator is quickly brought to justice.”
Craig Goldie, Loss Prevention Manager, said: “Everyone at Central England Co-op was shocked and appalled at the unacceptable attack on a colleague in Shepshed.
“Luckily, the colleague was not injured and we are offering full support to them and the entire team and working closely with the local police force to bring the person responsible to justice.”
A spokesperson for Leicestershire Police said: “Officers received a report of an assault at a store in Anson Road, Shepshed.
“The victim of the incident, who is in his 30s, reported minor injuries.
“Enquiries are currently ongoing into this incident including CCTV checks.
“Anyone with any information should contact 101 quoting incident 20*376023.”