Skeleton mask knife raider caught on CCTV

Jan 4 2008 by Paul James, The Journal

A KNIFE wielding raider sporting a skeleton mask escaped with cash after holding up a bookmakers in Gateshead.

Police issued CCTV stills of the incident yesterday in a bid to catch the man, who walked into Ladbrokes on Saltwell Road, Bensham, at 7pm on Saturday, December 22.

He threatened staff with the knife and they handed over an amount of cash, after which he fled.

Police recovered the mask near to the scene and have spoken to a number of witnesses, but are keen to speak to anyone who may have information.

The man is described as 6ft tall and stocky, wearing a khaki coat with buckles on the front and trousers of a similar colour which are thought to be combat trousers. He was wearing grey trainers with black toes and had a blue carrier bag with gold writing on it.

Yesterday Detective Inspector Graeme Rowlings, of Gateshead CID, said: “I am appealing for help from the public to find the person responsible for this robbery. Thankfully no-one was injured during the incident although staff and members of the public were left shaken.

“Such crimes where knives are used to commit robberies are rare in Gateshead and we are determined to catch the person responsible We would urge members of the public to come forward with any information they may have.”

Anyone who can help police is asked to call Gateshead CID on 0845 604-3043.