Armed robbery at betting shop in Reading
Cashier unhurt as she's threatened with a firearm
Police are appealing for witnesses after an armed robbery at a betting shop in Reading.
Just before 3.30 on Bank Holiday Monday afternoon a man entered the Coronation Square branch of Bet Fred and threatened the cashier with a firearm.
The offender then kicked down a door to gain access to the till and stole approximately £200 in cash.
The offender is described as either white or mixed race, approximately 5ft 6ins tall and was wearing green tracksuit bottoms with a dark grey hooded top with a white logo on the front.
He was also wearing a black balaclava, pink gloves and black trainers with a white sole.
The victim, a 58-year-old woman, was not injured.
Investigating officer Detective Constable Josh Gillespie, based at Reading police station, said:
“This was a frightening ordeal for the victim and the offender made off with an amount of cash.
“Thankfully, although shaken, the victim was not hurt.
“I am appealing to anybody who was in the vicinity of the Betfred in Coronation Square on Monday at around the time of the offence to please contact police if you witnessed anything that can help this investigation.
“If you recognise the description of the man, or have any CCTV, mobile phone or dash-cam footage, I would ask you to get in touch.
“You can make a report online or call 101, quoting reference number 43210236017.
“Alternatively, for 100% anonymity, you can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”