Man charged with robbery - Milton Keynes - 01-09-2008

Police have charged a 35-year-old man from Milton Keynes in connection with a robbery at a shop in Shenley Lodge.

Paul Watcham of Melfort Drive, Bletchley, was charged with burglary and possession of an imitation firearm. He has been remanded in custody and will appear at Aylesbury Crown Court on 10 September.

Detectives would like to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time of the robbery who may have information that can help the ongoing investigation.

The robbery happened on Saturday 23 August at about 9.35am at Orbit News in Faraday Drive while the owner was alone in the premises. A man entered the shop and produced what the owner believed to be a silver handgun before demanding money. The owner handed over two £10 notes from the till and the offender ran off.

Mr. Watcham was identified by the owner when he returned to the shop on Bank Holiday Monday (25/8) and was consequently arrested by officers at the scene.

Det Con Wayne Watson Said: "This was a particularly frightening experience for the owner as he had no way of knowing that the gun was a replica. He showed a great deal of bravery and calmly alerted police when the man returned to the store a few days later enabling us to make the arrest. Although we have charged a man in connection with the incident we would still like to hear from anyone who may have been in the area at the time."

Anyone with information about this incident can contact DC Wayne Watson at Milton Keynes police station via the 24-hour non-emergency number, 0845 8 505 505. If you do not want to speak to the police, call the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.

You can also give information to the police in person by visiting any police station. To find out the opening times and location of your local station please call 0845 8 505 505 or visit: www.thamesvalley.police.uk/bcu/milton_keynes/bcu-info/stations.htm

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