Shopkeeper in fear for his life

A SHOP keeper had a gun pointed at his chest during an armed robbery by masked men in Hathershaw.

The 42-year-old man feared he would be killed when the two offenders entered the Villa Mini-market, Villa Road, and demanded money just after 8pm last Wednesday.

One produced a silver handgun with a black handle and pointed it at the shopkeeper who handed over an undisclosed amount of money before the robbers left the shop.

They ran off into Plymouth Street before making their escape down an alleyway.

The shopkeeper was left shaken although physically unhurt after the robbery.

The offender with the gun is described as 5ft 8in tall and of medium build. He wore a black balaclava and a black waist-length jacket.

He spoke with a local accent.

The second offender was also about 5ft 8in tall, of medium build, wearing a similar balaclava and black jacket. He also is said to speak with a local accent. Detective Constable Paul Cockburn, of Oldham CID, said: “The victim was left absolutely shattered by his ordeal.

“He actually thought it was going to be the end of his life and was very scared he would be killed.

“He was also upset that his earnings for the day, which were to provide for his family, were stolen.

“These are violent and dangerous individuals who must be caught.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Oldham CID on 0161 856 8940 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.