Armed robber strikes again

POLICE in Ipswich are today linking two attempted armed robberies by a balaclava-clad gunmen.

McColl's newsagents, in Stoke Park Drive, was raided at approximately 10pm yesterday by a man brandishing a silver handgun.

The hold-up came just hours after a nearby store, in Greenfinch Avenue, was the target of an armed robbery - and Suffolk police have today confirmed they are linking the incidents.

Nothing was taken from either shop.

Inspector Christopher Walton said: "In the incident in Stoke Park Drive someone went in, made demands but didn't get anything and he was seen to leave on foot.

"He had what's been described as a shiny, short, silver-coloured pistol type gun.

"There was another attempted robbery early yesterday at Greenfinch Avenue which is not 1000 miles away so it seems someone is out and about at the moment."

Zala Tenzing, branch manager of McColl's, said it was business as usual at the shop today although he admitted they were "running on the drag".

The offender has been described as being in his late teens or early 20s. He was wearing a black coat and a backpack.

The Evening Star yesterday reported how the brave shopkeeper of Estate Stores, in Greenfinch Avenue, frightened off a raider brandishing a knife and handgun at 7.15am.

Colin Richardson swore at the attacker who turned and ran. As he fled on foot Mr Richardson threw a charity box at his back.

Mr Richardson, 40, described the man as approximately six foot, wearing dark clothing. He said: "My attitude is it's my money and I have worked for it. Some scumbag isn't going to take it off me I acted without thinking.

"He had a gun in his right hand which I didn't realise he had until he was going out of the door. He was only in the shop for ten seconds."

It is not known whether the gun was real although the incident has been captured on high quality, digital close circuit television.

Anyone with information about the crimes are asked to call Suffolk Police on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.