Masked robbers in raid on bookmakers
Female shopworker was subjected to a ‘frightening ordeal’
A WOMAN was subjected to a “frightening ordeal” by masked raiders during a robbery at a Lambourn bookmakers.
The incident took place at around 10.15am on Thursday at Ladbrokes in The Broadway.
The victim, a 26-year-old female employee, was approached by two men who threatened her and demanded money from the till and safe.
They stole cash before leaving the scene on bicycles.
The victim was badly shaken, but not physically injured.
Police initially described the incident as an “armed robbery”, but it is not now clear whether any weapons were involved.
Residents described seeing armed police at the scene and the police helicopter flying overhead.
Former district councillor Graham Jones, who runs the Lambourn Pharmacy in The Broadway, said: “If my windows hadn’t been frosted I would’ve been able to see Ladbrokes. But I heard and saw nothing.
“The first thing I and my staff knew something had happened was when we heard the helicopter overhead and saw the police arrive.”
Police have issued descriptions and appealed for any witnesses to come forward.
The first offender is a white man in his late 20s, about 5ft 3ins tall, skinny and with an Irish accent.
He was wearing dark clothing with
a hood and a high-vis jacket over the top, plus a black balaclava.
The second offender is a white man in his 30s and about 6ft tall.
He was skinny and wearing dark clothing with a high-vis jacket over the top. He was also wearing a face covering.
Investigating officer Det Con Petar Stoyanov, based at Newbury police station, said: “This was a frightening ordeal for the victim, and we are carrying out an investigation in order to apprehend those responsible.
“We believe that the offenders cycled to Ladbrokes down Parsonage Lane and then back the same way following the incident.
“I would like to speak to anyone who witnessed this offence, or who has any information which they think could be relevant to our investigation.
“If you have any details which you think could be helpful, please call Thames Valley Police on 101, quoting reference number 43200406661.”
You can also opt to make a report online or the independent Crimestoppers charity can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.