Father and son jailed after terrifying hammer robbery near Wolverhampton
A father and son have been jailed for robbery after a violent raid where they brandished hammers at a Bilbrook shop.
Peter and Simeon Gamage threatened staff with claw hammers when they raided the Budgen’s store on the morning of June 23 last year.
The shop owner tried to push both men outside and was grabbed and struck with a hammer causing bruising and bleeding to his head and left hand.
Other members of staff tried to assist and a builder fetched a chainsaw from his van causing the offenders to flee in a car.
Forensic evidence from the scene led the police to Peter Gamage.
Both men were sentenced at Wolverhampton Crown Court on Monday.
Peter Gamage, 52, of Smallwood Road, Pendeford, was jailed for seven years. He pleaded guilty to assault with intent to commit robbery and possession of an offensive weapon. He was found guilty of two further robberies.
Simeon Gamage, 34, of Elmhurst Crescent, Darlaston, was jailed for nine years. He pleaded not guilty to all offences and was found guilty of assault with intent to commit robbery, three counts of possession of an offensive weapon and two further counts of robbery.
Both were ordered to pay £170 victim surcharges.
Detective Constable Richard Williams said: “This was a terrifying robbery and we are grateful for the staff and members of the public who intervened.
"This investigation with our colleagues from West Midlands Police has resulted in lengthy jail terms for these men who set out to rob people who were working hard to earn a living.”
