Armed Robbery At 'One Stop' In Ashley Heath

Police are looking for armed robbers who tied up staff at a store in Ashley Heath, Dorset and escaped with cash.

The incident, in which two men threatened members of staff with a handgun and stole money, happened at the One Stop store along Horton Road at around 10.15pm on Thursday, 24 February 2011.

The two members of staff, a 49-year-old woman and a 17-year-old man, weren't injured.

The offenders made off with money – police won't say how much.

Detective Sergeant Dave Wise, of Ferndown CID, said:

“The victims were closing the store when the two offenders forced entry – with one of the two men appearing to be in possession of a handgun.

“The members of staff were taken into the back office. Both of the victims were tied up, while the robbers stole money from
the office.

“The offenders then fled on foot along the nearby Castlemain Trailway.”

One of the robbers is white and was wearing a beige coat with a light-coloured hooded top underneath. His face was covered.

The second robber is also white and was wearing black trousers, a black top and black trainers.

DS Wise continued:

“This robbery was extremely distressing for the two victims and I am determined to find the culprits.

“I am appealing for anyone who witnessed this robbery, and anyone with information about the men responsible, to contact me urgently.

“All calls will be treated in the strictest of confidence.”

Following the report, officers, assisted by armed colleagues, searched the surrounding area.

A cordon was set up around the store while experts examined the scene.

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 01202 or 01305 22 22 22 quoting incident number 24:523. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111
where mobile phone tariffs may apply.