Barclay's bank left unlocked

Apr 7 2009 by Jon Tunney, The Journal

DOZY contractors forgot to lock up after leaving Barclays bank in Durham Road, Low Fell, Gateshead, over the weekend.

But not one crook tried to cash in on the rare opportunity. And when a customer did finally stumble on the unmanned branch on Saturday afternoon, they dutifully called the police.

Today, shop owners along the high street said they were not surprised by the unselfish actions of Low Fell residents.

Sue Whitfield, from Low Fell Florists, said the busy, bustling shopping area was rarely troubled by criminals. Ms Whitfield said: “We’ve been here for 11 years and its a really friendly place. There’s always a lot of people about but no crime or anything like that. Everybody helps each other out and local residents tend to shop on the fell when they can to keep the businesses open.”

FGB Traditional Greengrocers opened opposite Barclays bank on Thursday.

Manager Phil Webber said he was surprised when he saw police officers descend on the site.

He said: “I saw all the police outside the bank on Saturday and officers climbing over the back wall. I’m from Low Fell originally so know it was an unusual sight, it’s a spot on place. It’s a lot different to other areas.”

Barclays blamed contractors for leaving the branch open, but insisted cash and customer information were safely locked away. A spokeswoman said the company would be investigating the incident and thanked the customer who alerted the police.