Police investigate armed robbery in Barrow - updated 08/02/2012

Police are investigating after an armed robbery occurred in Barrow yesterday afternoon.

Just after 3.30pm on Sunday 5 February 2012, police were called to Marsh Street Stores, Barrow, after receiving reports that a robbery had taken place inside the premises.

A lone female shop assistant was threatened with a knife by a man who demanded money from her. He made off with approximately £200 in bank notes.

He is described as white, between 5’9” and 6’0” tall, in his early thirties and of medium build.

Detective Sergeant John Dilks said “A full investigation is underway to trace the man responsible for this particularly nasty robbery.

“Fortunately, nobody was injured during the incident but naturally, the woman who was threatened with a knife has been traumatised by her ordeal.

“We are very keen to speak to anyone who was in the area of Marsh Street Stores on Sunday afternoon. Did you see someone watching the shop prior to going inside? Or did you see someone running from the shop?

“We are particularly keen to speak to two teenage boys who entered the store around 3.15pm. We really need them to come forward as we believe they may be key witnesses in our enquiry.

“The local community is all feeling the effects of this robbery and I am appealing to them to please come forward if they have any information.

“I also would appeal to any local shopkeepers to think back. If you think you may have had a man in your store that matches the description of the person we are looking for and who may have bought something either yesterday or this morning using a large quantity of notes, please contact us.”

UPDATE

Detectives investigating an armed robbery at Marsh Street Stores in Barrow yesterday afternoon have arrested a 29 year old local man on suspicion of robbery. He is currently in police custody being questioned by officers.

UPDATE 08/02/2012

Police have today charged a local man in connection with the knife point robbery at Marsh Street Stores, Barrow.

Scott Stewart Paton, aged 29 of no fixed abode, will appear before Furness and District Magistrates Court on Wednesday 8th February 2012.

Detectives can confirm they are not looking for anyone else in connection with this incident, and would like to thank the public for their assistance.