Warning to traders after '˜brazen thief' raids Somerstown shop

Police are hunting for a crook who made off with the cash after snatching it from the till at All About Tea, in Middle Street.

The crime took place at 10am on Monday and has shocked the shop’s owner, Andrew Gadsden.

He said the assailant came into the store claiming to be selling paint.

After distracting the sales assistant, the man reached into the till and stole £100 before fleeing the store.

Mr Gadsden is now urging other traders to be vigilant of the paint-selling crook.

He said: ‘It was totally brazen and in broad daylight.

‘He was in absolutely no hurry and showed no forensic awareness.

‘He didn’t care about finger prints being left and he seemed perfectly relaxed about it all.

‘My colleagues and I have worked hard to earn this money.

‘I have sympathy for people who may be hard-up but people like this are taking food from my table which they have no right to. It’s a real punch in the stomach.’

Police are now attempting to trace the man.

He is described as Asian, in his late 30s, almost six feet tall and of slim build. He has short dark hair and was wearing a grey hoody, dark trousers and navy blue coat.

Those with any information about the theft, or who recognises the suspect, should call police on 101 quoting the reference number 44160257729.