Axe-wielding robber raids several stores in Kirklees

Officers have released images of a suspect as part of an ongoing investigation into a robbery and two attempted robberies in Kirklees.

The offender threatened staff with an axe at two stores and ram raided another with a stolen vehicle on 10 April. Kirklees District CID would like to speak to anyone who recognises the clothing of the man pictured or who has information which might help identify him.

The images were taken at a newsagents in Holmfirth in which the suspect threatened staff with an axe.  He made off with cash and cigarettes.

Officers have linked the offence with an earlier attempted robbery at a post office and convenience store on Manchester Road in Linthwaite on the same day, in which the suspect also threatened staff with an axe.  He made off empty handed after the staff refused to give him money.

It is also linked with the theft of a BMW car from Berry Brow in Huddersfield which was then used in an attempted ram raid at a convenience store in Golcar, also on 10 April.

“We are continuing to investigate four linked offences from April 10 and have issued a CCTV still of a suspect, taken from the robbery in Holmfirth,” PC Josh Lowther of Kirklees CID, said.

“While the man’s face is clearly not visible it is possible someone may recognise the individual from his clothing and demeanor, and I would ask anyone who can assist our investigation to contact us.

Anyone who can aid the investigation in any way is asked to contact Kirklees CID on 101 referencing crime number 13210175843. Information can also be given online or anonymously to the independent Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.