A COURAGEOUS cashier told last night how she refused to be intimidated by a balaclava-clad would-be robber who burst into a garage and demanded money - the second time she has been targeted by raiders in just six months.

By John Howard

A COURAGEOUS cashier told last night how she refused to be intimidated by a balaclava-clad would-be robber who burst into a garage and demanded money - the second time she has been targeted by raiders in just six months.

Marlene Riggey has now bravely turned away robbers at two different garages in the Stowmarket area, including one gun-toting thug.

The 51-year-old, who lives in the town, said she is determined not to be beaten by people who are not prepared to work for a living, and on both occasions refused to hand over any money.

In the latest incident Ms Riggey was working at the Tot Hill garage on the A14 at nearby Haughley when a man wearing a balaclava - described as homemade from thin crepe-style material - entered demanding money.

Ms Riggey said last night: “It all seemed a little unreal while it was happening and I was alright at the time, but afterwards I thought, my God, it could have been serious.

“It had just gone quiet and probably only five or ten minutes had elapsed since the cleaning chap had left and I was sitting on my chair reading my magazine, all calm.

“Then the doors opened and I looked up. He was wearing a full balaclava on his head, with just eye slits and he says, “Give me money”.

“You can't print what I said to him, I was so angry. I work for my money and why should someone come in and help themselves, it's unbelievable.

“He said again “Give me money” and I hit the panic button, got off my chair - watching him all the time - picked up the phone and dialled 999. He mumbled and walked out the door.

“The police were very, very good and were very quick, they have also been very supportive and offered me help through Victim Support.''

The incident happened at about 8pm on Tuesday last week. And earlier in the year Ms Riggey had been working at a different garage, the Esso in Stowmarket, when a man came in with a gun.

On that occasion too the raider, who was later caught, also found that Ms Riggey would not be intimidated.

Ms Riggey, who went straight back to work as normal after a planned day off following the Tot Hill incident, said: “I just can't believe it, I have been in the job nearly 17 years now and nothing like this has ever happened before.

“Now it's happened twice in about six months. But tomorrow is another day, you can't dwell on it.''

Tot Hill garage manager Angela Saggetter, who has worked at the business for 18 years, said she could only praise Ms Riggey for being so brave, calm and collected.

n Police said no-one has been arrested for the latest incident and are appealing for witnesses or anyone who has information about the Tot Hill attempted robbery to contact Stowmarket police officers on 01284 774100 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.