WATCH: Bookies raider scared off by Glasgow granny is jailed

66 year old Mary threatened to break the robber's wrists with a metal pole

Published 16th Aug 2016

An armed robber who raided two bookmakers within a two hour period, before being chased off by a great gran, has been jailed for five years.

Michael McLean, 36, admitted robbing Ladbrokes Bookmakers in Saltmarket , Glasgow, by brandishing a shovel at an employee and making off with £405.

He also admitted intent to rob William King and Sons Bookmakers, in Battlefield Road, Glasgow, by threatening an employee with a piece of wood but brave Mary Buchan, 66, chased him off.

Judge Lord Bracadale jailed McLean, of Kerrycroy Avenue, Glasgow and imposed an extended sentence of five years in prison and supervision for three years following his release.

The High Court in Glasgow heard that before the first robbery McLean had placed 30 to 40 bets on horse and dog races.

Advocate depute Bernard Ablett, prosecuting, said: “About 6.20pm the accused then re-entered the bookmakers, this time with his hood up, and in possession of a shove which he brandished and shouted "Gies the money".

“The member of staff was fearful for his safety and handed the accused £405.”

McLean fled with the cash and two hours later targeted the bookies in Battlefield Road.

On this occasion he demanded money saying: “I'm holding you up. I'm not joking. This is a robbery.”

But employee Mrs Buchan told 6ft thief McLean to “p*** off” when he poked a stick at her and demanded cash.

After repeated pleas for the money, he fled empty-handed as she pulled out the metal pole and vowed to break his wrist.

He was caught when alerted police and he was caught ditching his weapon.

The court heard McLean was identified from CCTV footage in the bookies.