Armed robbers caged over 'terrifying' heist

Michael Watson

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ARMED robbers from Oldham have been jailed for a combined 19 years.

The trio threatened a woman with a knife and gun before making off with cash from a local store in Wakefield just under two months ago.

Michael Watson (34), of Marion Street; Wesley Harper (39), of Osmond Street; and Philip Littleford (36), of Vincent Avenue; pleaded guilty to charges of robbery and possession of an imitation firearm.

They were sentenced at Leeds Crown Court on Friday.

Police praised Oldham residents and witnesses who were instrumental in capturing and putting the robbers behind bars.

The men made off with cash from the shop's charity box as well as money from the till after threatening the female member of staff at the Wrenthorpe store on August 31.

The offenders were identified and arrested within days after Wakefield Police carried out inquiries and obtained information from residents.

DS Steve Sayles, of Wakefield District CID, told the Chronicle: "These men richly deserved their sentences for what was, for them, an opportunistic robbery which proved to be a terrifying experience for their victim.

"She was unharmed but left very shocked by what took place and I hope she can take some comfort from seeing these three men put behind bars."

Police said that a "very strong case" was made against the robbers thanks to the help of residents in Wrenthorpe and Oldham.

Mr Sayles added: "I want to thank members of the public in both Wrenthorpe and Oldham who came forward with some excellent information to help us arrest and then build a very strong case with which to prosecute these men. The assistance we had, including accurate details for the getaway vehicle, was of real significance in helping put these three behind bars.

"Information from the public can prove crucial in solving offences and I can promise those who contact us that all intelligence provided to the police is looked into."

Watson was sentenced to six years, Harper was jailed for six years and Littleford was given seven years.