Axe-attack terror for bank security guard

AN axe-wielding robber stole thousands of pounds from a Chadderton bank.

The masked man threatened a security guard with a distinctive yellow axe in the entrance of Natwest, Hollinwood Avenue, at about 10.25am last Thursday, although details were released only today

He picked up a cash box which was dropped by the frightened guard, before fleeing in a green Renault Laguna which was later found abandoned. No one was hurt.

The robber was white, about 6ft tall and wore a grey hooded top and a black balaclava.

Det-Sgt Jamie Daniels, from Oldham CID, said: “The victim has been through a traumatic ordeal and did exactly the right thing by not trying to wrestle with the thief, otherwise he could have been seriously injured by the axe.”

Greater Manchester Police launched Operation Vanguard last year to crack down on attacks on cash-in-transit vans, banks, bookies and post offices. There were 81 attacks last year, down from 91 in 2007, but the area still has the second highest number of incidents in the country.

Det-Sgt Daniels added: “Through this operation we have brought career criminals to book.

“I would like to assure people that if they provide us with information that will help us identify this offender, we will bring the full force of the law to convict them.

Police are appealing for witnesses. Anyone with information should call Oldham CID on 0161-856 8951 or Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800-555 111.