Would-be garage raiders jailed

1:31pm Thursday 7th August 2008

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TWO men who set out to rob a Malvern garage but were thwarted by an employee brandishing an umbrella have been jailed.

Sean Thomas and Daniel Barrow admitted a series of robberies and attempted robberies around the Ledbury and Malvern area at Hereford Crown Court this week.

One of these took place at the Bicknells garage in Malvern at about 7.10pm on April 1.

After filling a petrol can with £5 of fuel they handed counter worker Colin Nicholson a note that read: “Put the money in the bag and nobody will get hurt”. They also threatened to set both him and the garage on fire, said Peter Parson, prosecuting.

But Mr Nicholson told them: “You’ve got no chance,” and threw a large umbrella at them before chasing them out of the shop.

Thomas, 22, of Gypsy Castle Estate, Hay-on-Wye, was sentenced to three years and four months in prison for his part in one robbery and two attempted robberies.

Barrow, 24, of Aston Close, Ledbury, took part in two robberies and two attempted robberies and was given a four year term.

Lynette McClement, for Barrow, said he was immature and at times stupid, and was easily led. She said he offended because he had a drug problem and no income.

Giles Nelson, for Thomas, said he had a partner and child and was not robbing to fund a drug addiction.