Raiders rob post office

The raiders struck at the Low Town Post Office in Bridgnorth, knocking over a terrified customer in their scramble to escape. Police would not confirm today whether a weapon was used.

Owner Bob Beckett, who is in his 60s, suffered a head wound and was treated at the scene by paramedics but declined hospital treatment.

He raised the alarm and called the police immediately after the robbery at the premises in St John's Street shortly before 4.30pm yesterday.

The two thugs, wearing dark clothing, struck just over an hour before the business was due to close.

The police helicopter was drafted in to help the search for the robbers. CCTV footage is being studied.

Detective Constable Lee Holehouse, of Bridgnorth CID, said: "The offenders entered the store and used force on the shopkeeper, causing minor injuries, before stealing a quantity of cash.

"The offenders then ran into a housing estate at the rear of the post office and were last seen in Severn Street shortly after the robbery.

"The offenders are described as 6ft 1ins and 6ft tall, wearing identical dark blue jackets and trousers, and orange or red balaclavas."

One eyewitness, who did not want to be named, said he was pushed over by the robbers as they ran from the shop.

He said: "I entered the post office to see Bob with his face up the counter window with his glasses askew and blood on his face and the two men behind the counter.

"I then moved into the post office and shouted. The men looked towards me, came from behind the counter and ran straight at me, pushing me towards the door.

"I fell backwards and they had to jump over me and run away."

DC Holehouse added: "Police are anxious to hear from anybody who may have witnessed the robbery or seen the offenders nearby."

Anyone with information should ring 08457 444888 or the Crimestoppers number on 0800 555111.

By Simon Alton