THANKS to the quick thinking of staff at Launceston’s Spar Shop in Newtown police were able to arrest a man on suspicion of armed robbery.

During the early evening of Sunday, December 5, a 39-year-old man entered the Spar Shop, Newtown, armed with a large knife and threatened the staff, before leaving with cash. 

No one was hurt during the incident.

A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesperson said: “Due to the excellent security measures in place and quick thinking of the staff, the police were able to respond rapidly and within an hour, had secured the evidence and arrested the suspect.

“This was a truly shocking crime for the town, but due to the courage and calm actions of the staff, nobody was hurt, and the offender was caught and will be brought to justice.”

They added: “The male appeared at Truro Magistrates this morning and was remanded in custody until January 4. Police will continue support for the staff through this ordeal.”