Gem shop couple’s raid bid ordeal

MASKED raiders targeted a couple in Rochdale as they locked up their jewellery shop for the night.

The couple were leaving Britannia Jewellery, in Yorkshire Street, at 7.10pm on Wednesday when they were approached by four masked men.

One of them hit the man across the head before forcing the pair into a van as they demanded the keys to the shop.

The gang all wore masks and were armed with an axe and two baseball bats.

The man was attacked and let out of the van, but his wife was driven round for a short time before being dumped close by.

The white LDV Convoy van was later found abandoned in Sweetbriers Close. An attempt had been made to set it alight.

Det Cons Jonathan Carter, of Rochdale CID, said: “This was an absolutely terrifying incident.

“The man was left with a minor head injury. Fortunately his wife was not injured, but they’ve both been left understandably shaken by their ordeal.

“All that fear was caused by robbers who ended up getting away with nothing.

“I’d urge anyone who may have seen any part of the attack to call us.”

Anyone with any information is asked to call Rochdale CID on 0161-856 4644, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.