Armed raiders strike twice within half-an-hour

ARMED raiders struck at two convenience stores at Warrington within half-an-hour last night.
Police are appealing for witnesses of the incidents at McColl’s on Admiral’s Road Birchwood and Sainsbury’s at The Cross, in Lymm.
The first incident occurred at approximately 10.30pm at Birchwood when three armed men attempted to force their way into McColl’s.
The men, who were all wearing dark clothing and armed with a weapon, were banging on the door, threatening staff and demanding that they let them inside.
Staff within the store immediately called for police assistance and the offenders fled the scene empty handed.
At around 11pm, two men wearing black clothing and balaclavas entered Sainsbury’s convenience store on the Cross in Lymm via the main entrance.
The men, who were both carrying weapons, approached the counter and demanded that the two store workers open the tills and the safe.
The pair, who were both described as having Manchester accents, then stole a quantity of cash before exiting the store and fleeing in an a car.
There were no reports of any injuries in either of the incidents.
Detective Constable John Parry said: “These were terrifying incidents for all those involved and I want to reassure the community that we are doing all we can to trace those responsible.
“We take any incidents of this nature extremely seriously and we will do all we can to locate the offenders and ensure they are brought to justice.
“Extensive enquiries are being carried out in a bid to piece together as much information as we can about these incidents, which we believe could be linked.
“I would appeal to anyone who has any information regarding any of these incidents to come forward. Even the smallest amount of information can be useful when piecing together a case.
“The same goes for any motorists with a dashcam who may have any footage which may aid the investigation.”
Anyone with any information in relation to the three incidents is urged to call Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident number IML-474071 for the incident in Birchwood or IML-474103 for the incident in Lymm.
Information can also be reported via the website on https://www.cheshire.police.uk/contact/general-enquiries/ or anonymously, via Crimestopper, on 0800 555 111.
Dashcam footage can be submitted online at www.cheshire.police.uk/advice-and-support/roads-and-vehicle-safety/submit-dashcam-footage.