“It’s the shock that has affected him” - Ladbrokes manager tells of colleague’s robbery ordeal

A betting shop manager has spoken of the moment her colleague was attacked while trying to prevent a robbery.

Sasha Sewell, manager at the Ladbrokes branch on London Road in Pakefield, said her co-worker had been left 'understandably shaken' by the incident, which took place yesterday evening at 7.15pm (Friday, May 18).

Police said two men, aged between 30 and 40, entered the shop with an older man who was referred to as 'dad'. One man then jumped across the shop counter and snatched around £900 from the till.

When the employee - who would like to remain anonymous - attempted to intervene, the man and another offender attempt to assault him.

Mrs Sewell, 22, who was not working at the time of the robbery, explained how it affected her colleague.

'It's the shock more than anything that has affected him,' she said. 'He wasn't hurt, but it really did come out of the blue as it's obviously not something you expect to happen when you go to work.

'He was due to be at work again today, but he'll certainly have the weekend off and then we'll assess how he's coping next week.

'The police were very quick to get here and the forensic team followed close behind so we're very grateful to them.'

The employee who tried to stop the robbery was uninjured. The offenders left the shop in the direction of London Road South, police said.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident and anyone with information is asked to call Lowestoft CID on 01986 835117, quoting crime reference 37/27121/18. Alternatively, you can call 101 or contact the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.