Bookies robbed by knife raider

Jan 28 2008 by Susan Taylor, The Journal

POLICE say a raid on a bookmakers in Newcastle on Saturday night may be linked to others in the North-East over the last few weeks.

During the latest incident a man armed with an eight-inch knife entered the Chisholm Bookmakers in Station Road, South Gosforth, threatened staff and made off with £300.

The raider, who struck at about 7pm, was described as slim, about 5ft 8in tall and was wearing a blue jacket and khaki trousers, with a green scarf wrapped around his face.

The robber is believed to be male and aged between 20 and 30.

After the robbery he left the shop and headed towards South Gosforth Metro Station.

Police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

People with information should call 0845 604-3043 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Earlier this month Northumbria Police stepped up patrols around bookmakers in Gateshead following four armed robberies in three weeks.

Two of those raids involved the use of knives being brandished at staff, with the other two involving hammers. No-one was seriously hurt in any of the incidents.

Police last night said they were keeping an open mind as to whether these robberies are linked with the latest incident.