Staff 'shaken' after armed robber raids One Stop store in Oswaldtwistle

Lancashire Police has issued an appeal for information and CCTV footage following an attempted armed robbery at a One Stop store and post office in Oswaldtwistle.

A shop worker has been ‘left extremely shaken’ after a man threatened them with a weapon and demanded money, the police said.

The incident happened at around at 9.28am on May 14. The suspect (pictured), described as being of a slim build and wearing all black clothing, black trainers, black gloves and a black balaclava, left the store empty-handed, the police added.

“This is a serious incident which happened in broad daylight. Understandably the staff member involved was left extremely shaken but, thankfully, unharmed,” PC Jess Blakesley, of East Division, said.

“We know news of this incident will leave the public feeling concerned and we would like to reassure them that we have a dedicated team of officers assigned to this investigation. Reassurance patrols have been increased in the area as a precaution and they will continue over the coming days.

“Our enquiries are very much ongoing and we are now asking for the public to get in contact if they saw the male in the CCTV still before or after the incident to come forward. We are particularly keen to speak to a dog walker who was in the area at the time, who might have seen the suspect without his face covered.

“We would also ask people in the area to review their CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage to see if they have captured anything which may help our investigation.”

Anyone with information is asked to email 5543@lancshire.police.uk or call 101, quoting log 0429 of May 14, 2022. Alternatively, call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.