Armed raid - customers could hold clues

CUSTOMERS of takeaway restaurants could help track down two armed raiders who threatened a newsagent during a terrifying raid.

The men wore balaclavas and brandished a knife and baton during the raid on Studlands Park Newsagents, Newmarket. They stole cash, cigarettes and a bottle of alcohol from the shop.

The 48-year-old newsagent was left shaken by the incident after being threatened by the men who cut the phone line before running from the rear door of the shop.

Police have appealed for witnesses and revealed customers of nearby takeaway outlets could be an integral part of their investigation.

Det Insp Karl Smith said: "This must have been a terrifying ordeal for the 48-year-old newsagent who was left shaken by the incident but fortunately not injured.

"We would like to appeal to anyone who witnessed the offence or anyone acting suspiciously around the area to contact us as a matter of priority.

"There are a number of other shops and takeaway restaurants in the vicinity of the newsagents and we are keen to hear from anyone who may have been using these facilities at the time stated – they may have information to assist us with our enquiries."

The men entered the store in Brickfields Avenue shortly after 7.25pm on Saturday .

The man carrying the knife has been described as white, about 6ft tall, wearing blue jeans, a black leather biker-style jacket and boots with silver toes.

He was also carrying a small black Adidas bag used to carry the cash from the premises.

The man with the baton is white, about 5ft 7ins tall, large build, wearing black jeans, a short black anorak and white trainers.

The owner of the shop was too shocked to speak yesterday but Det Mr Smith added: "Perhaps you were in the area and spotted two men running from the scene carrying a dark bag? Whatever information you have I would urge you to contact us."

Anyone with information should contact Newmarket CID on 01284 774100 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.