Shops robbed

Detectives in Newark are investigating two robberies at shops in the town on Friday night.

The first robbery was at around 10pm at the One Stop Convenience Store in Ruby's Avenue, Newark, when three men went into the shop and threatened staff before stealing the tills and their contents.

All three were dressed in black and had their faces covered.

The second robbery happened at around 10.20pm at the Spar shop in Farndon Road, Newark. Two men, both wearing balaclavas, entered the shop and sprayed an unknown substance into the face of the woman working in the store before stealing cash from the till and the victim's purse.

The woman was not seriously injured.

The first man was dark skinned, about 6ft 1in tall, of stocky build and was between 25 and 28 years old. He was wearing dark clothing and white trainers.

The second man was also dark skinned, of slim build and 18-20 years old. He was also wearing dark clothing.

Detective Inspector Dave Sinclair, who is investigating both these incidents, said: “We are currently examining the possibility that these robberies are linked, as it is extremely unusual to have two incidents like this in such a short space of time.

“Thankfully, no one was seriously injured in either robbery and we are now working hard to identify and arrest the offenders. We believe there may have been a blue van involved in one or both of these incidents, and I would ask anyone who saw a similar vehicle in the vicinity of either robbery to contact detectives.

“Robberies like these are rare in Newark, and officers from the local Neighbourhood Policing Teams are liaising with shops in the area to reassure staff and offer crime prevention advice.

“Anyone who witnessed either of these robberies, or who has any information about who may have been responsible, should contact Newark CID on 0300 300 9999 ext 7635.

“Alternatively, they can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.”