Man used fake gun in series of shop robberies

A man who threatened shop staff with a fake gun in a series of robberies has been jailed for nine years.

Westley Brimble, 47, carried out three robberies and one attempted robbery at businesses in Bedfordshire and Milton Keynes in a 26-hour spree.

In one instance on 5 April, Bedfordshire Police said Brimble stole £230 from a bookmakers in Luton. He gave a handwritten note to staff, which said: "Listen. Do not make a noise. Fill this bag with money. I have a gun."

He also targeted a hotel and food stores.

Brimble, of Wauluds Bank Drive, Luton, admitted three counts of robbery, one attempted robbery and one charge of criminal damage. He also admitted four charges of possession of an imitation firearm and was sentenced at Luton Crown Court on 26 September.

Det Sgt Jordan Lancaster said: "He made shop workers who were just doing their jobs fear for their lives."

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