Witness appeal after raid on surgery

DETECTIVES have renewed their appeal for witnesses after a woman was threatened at gunpoint during a robbery at a doctor’s surgery in Oldham.

Two offenders, one carrying a gun, held up Go to Doc at the corner of Yates Street and Shaw Road on Friday, July 25.

The gunman pointed the firearm through an open window and demanded money and drugs. The terrified victim handed over her purse, containing only a small amount of cash, and the men ran off.

No shots were fired and the woman was not injured, but she was left badly shaken.

Police have released a description of the purse and are appealing to anyone it might be offered to to come forward.

Bought in Germany, the zip purse has an unusual tapestry design made out of metal. It is chocolate and beige in colour, has one compartment, a zip and Labrador dogs on the front.

The man with the gun is described as white, about 26, of muscular build, quite tall, rugged-looking with stubble and prominent cheek bones.

He spoke with a very deep Irish voice. He was wearing a black beanie hat with a logo on the front, a black scarf up to the chin, and a dark black or blue top with blue cuffs and white horizontal strips on the arm and body.

There is no description of the second offender.

Det Con Paul Cockburn said: “Although the gun was not fired, the victim was understandably frightened.

“I would specifically like to appeal to anyone who sees this distinctive purse to come forward.

“I would appeal to anyone who has information about this incident, or anyone who saw these two men in the area, to come forward.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident should contact police on 0161-856 8951 or the Crimestoppers charity (anonymously) on 0800-555 111.