Battling sub-postmaster and postman heroes stop gunman

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Battling sub-postmaster and postman heroes stop masked PO gunman

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POLICE are continuing their search for an armed robber following an attempted raid at Lostwithiel Post Office.

The man stormed into the post office in Queen Street demanding money but was thwarted by the sub-postmaster and a postman and fled empty-handed.

The incident, shortly before 5.30pm on Friday, sparked a major police response involving dozens of officers, some of them armed, who carried out house-to-house inquiries.

The force helicopter was also used in the search for the gunman.

This week residents spoke of their shock at the incident and also praised the sub-postmaster and a postman who confronted the masked robber.

Police say sub-postmaster Gary Shaw and the postman wrestled with the man after he entered the sorting room at the rear of the post office.

It is believed the robber threatened Mr Shaw, his wife Carol and the postman with the gun and demanded cash.

While the two men struggled with the robber, Mrs Shaw was able to raise the alarm.

The robber is described as male, aged around 50 years. He is about 5ft 11in tall and of slim build. He had wavy, greying hair and was wearing a light blue/grey boilersuit.

Former soldier, Frank Sargent, 89, who lives behind the post office said people were shocked by the events.

"A policewoman and a dog came up to my house to see if the gunman was hiding up here. There was a helicopter hovering over the area for around half an hour. I think they were very brave for tackling the gunman."

Detective Inspector Chris Strickland said armed police officers were on the scene very quickly but the robber had fled. They believe he probably had a car parked nearby and are keen to hear from witnesses who may have seen a man in the area at that time.

The policeman also praised the actions of the sub-postmaster and postman.

"I think what the men did was brilliant but I wouldn't recommend people try tackling a man with a sawn-off shotgun. I don't think it was the best planned robbery. One person did see the man's face. The robber was prepared for the attack and had a balaclava with him which wasn't put on until he was inside the building."

Deputy mayor Dave Robson said: "I think Gary did what every true Brit wants to do – defend his own territory and property. He was looking after everyone. All their actions were heroic and it's reassuring to know that the town has such brave people working in the post office. They do a brilliant job and we are all relieved they are all OK."

A Post Office spokesman said: "The branch is open and the Post Office Ltd is offering support to those involved."

In 2003, Mr and Mrs Shaw were raided while asleep above the post office when thieves made off with thousands of pounds stolen from their safe.