Worker threatened in armed Co-op raid

Masked raiders forced their way into an Aldridge Co-op store, threatening a worker with a crowbar before making off with cash, stamps and cigarettes.

Two men burst into the Co-op in Walsall Wood Road through a back door, confronting a terrified 21-year-old male assistant who was in the building alone.

Ds Rob Bastin, of Walsall CID said: "This was a frightening incident and we are appealing for anyone who was in the area of the Co-op around 6.30am on Saturday or anyone who saw anyone suspicious or any suspicious vehicles in the area to contact the CID at Walsall."

Clare Rajan, spokeswoman for The Co-operative, said: "The member of staff was unharmed but badly shaken. CCTV footage has been given to the police who are investigating.

"As with any incident such as this, The Co-operative is reviewing security measures at the store and we would appeal for anyone with information to come forward."

No-one was hurt in the robbery. The offenders are both described as being white men, wearing black balaclavas and dark clothes.

Jane Mee, of The Flower Orchard, opposite the shop, said: "It does make us very worried but it doesn't surprise us as there has been a lot of incidents around."