A masked robber armed with an eight-inch knife raided a convenience shop in Shiney Row, Tyne and Wear, shortly before closing. He threatened cashier Abi and demanded money, while the worker delayed him by pretending to open the till and trying to activate the shop’s security system. The incident highlights the risks faced by late-night retail staff, although the shop’s owner said Abi did the right thing by prioritising personal safety.

The robber, wearing a balaclava, an Emporio Armani tracksuit and orange gardening gloves, placed a bread container by the door before confronting Abi. After more than a minute, Abi handed over approximately £200, and the robber fled. The family-run store, which opened in February, said it had not previously experienced an armed robbery; local residents later offered support and some reportedly provided information about the suspect.