Armed Leeds post office robbery foiled by police and public

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ROBBERS armed with hammers were foiled by brave police and members of the public when they stormed a Leeds post office.

The two raiders forced their way behind the counter at the post office on Station Road, Burley-in-Wharfedale, just after 5pm on Monday. (April 15)

The two men, wearing balaclavas and armed with a sledgehammer and a lump hammer, stole a small quantity of cash.

The postmaster, who was in the shop with a female customer, activated an alarm which alerted quick-thinking members of the public, who then flagged down a passing police car.

A police officer then entered the premises and was confronted by the men.

With the help of his colleague and a member of the public, one of the men was detained at the scene .

Another member of the public attempted to stop the second man, who ran to a waiting white Kia Sportage vehicle with the number plate MX62 GUE.

He was described as a white man who was wearing a white shirt.

The driver of the vehicle, which drove off at speed towards Guiseley, was described as white, around 30 years of age and of stocky build. He was wearing sunglasses.

The stolen cash was later recovered outside the post office.

Detective Inspector Neil Benstead, said: “This was clearly a very frightening incident for the postmaster, members of the public and the police.

“I would appeal to anyone who witnessed the incident, including the vehicle leaving the scene and it being driven towards Guiseley, to contact Airedale and North Bradford CID on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111. I would also be particularly keen to trace the customer, who is believed to be a local lady.

“Officers are patrolling in the area today to reassure the community and trace witnesses. To date, the vehicle has not been recovered and we believe that it was displaying false number plates and most likely stolen.”

A 39 year-old man is in police custody and enquiries are ongoing.