A shopkeeper held up in an armed raid at his Forfar store has spoken of how he feared for his life when a masked man burst in and demanded money.
Lalit Sharma was working in the Premier Shop on Glenogil Terrace, Gallowshade, when the male walked in brandishing what appeared to be a hammer.
Mr Sharma, 46, was working alongside a male member of staff at 8.50pm on Saturday evening.
Still visibly shaken on Sunday morning, he said: “He just rushed in with what looked like a hammer and was saying ‘money, money, money’.
“I was frightened for my safety and the safety of my staff. I couldn’t sleep last night.”
Local residents at the scene spoke of their disbelief when they heard about the raid.
One resident, who did not wish to be named, said: “The staff in the shop are so lovely. I can’t believe this has happened.
“I was surprised to hear about it this morning.
“The shop owners are so helpful. I’m just pleased they weren’t injured.”
Police Scotland has made an urgent appeal for information to try to trace the male, who made off with a quantity of money.
He was last seen turning left out of the shop and running away in Glenogil Terrace where he was lost to sight.
The person responsible is described as a white male, of slim build and was wearing a black jacket, hooded top, dark face mask, gloves, dark grey trousers and black footwear.
If anybody recognises the male, has observed the male in the area before or after the crime, or has any information about this crime, then police would like to speak to you as a matter of urgency.
Police Scotland can be contacted on 101 or speak to any officer.
If you wish to remain anonymous but have information you want to supply, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Full story in tomorrow’s paper.