Masked thieves try and rob store

Date published: 31 January 2012

Masked thieves brandishing weapons tried to rob a convenience store in Bury.

It happened at the Vimal Convenience Store on Young Street, Radcliffe, at about 8.50pm on 4 December 2011.

Three men, one armed with a small axe and another with a baton or stick, went into the shop through the front door and demanded cash.

The shopkeeper, 43, pressed the audible panic alarm at which point the three would-be thieves fled empty-handed.

Police have now released CCTV stills of the men and are appealing to anyone with information to come forward.

The man carrying the axe was said to be about 5ft 9in tall, 20 years old and of a medium build. He was wearing a black bubble jacket with the hood up, black bottoms and a black hat, along with a green scarf or face mask. The weapon was concealed in a yellow carrier bag.

The second man carrying the stick was of a medium build, about 5ft 9in tall, 20 years old and wearing a grey hooded top and grey trousers. He was also wearing a black balaclava. The third man was of a medium build, about 5ft 9in tall, 20 years old and wearing a dark blue or black hooded top with a large orange Adidas motif on the front.

Detective Constable Martin Brown, of Bury CID, said: "The CCTV is of a good quality and has captured very clear images of these three men. While their faces may be covered, I would urge people to look carefully at each image and if you recognise these men, or perhaps recognise the distinctive clothing as belonging to someone you suspect, then please call us.

"It was only because of the security measures the shop had in place that this gang fled empty-handed.

"However, just because they did not steal anything it does not detract from the clear intent to use violence to get what they wanted, and the fact they were brandishing weapons shows these men need to be stopped.

"I would therefore again ask that if anyone has information about what happened that they come and help bring those responsible to justice."

Anyone with information is asked to call Bury CID on 0161 856 8150 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.