Shocking events in Aldridge – a van is reversed into the frontage of Barclays Bank. Image posted on Facebook by Neil P.

Somewhat shockingly, there has been a bank robbery in Aldridge this morning (Friday 9th December 2016), when it appears a van was smashed into the frontage of Barclays in the High Street, whereupon raiders threatened staff with machetes or similar.

The robbers progress was apparently impeded by a christmas tree in the foyer, and the empty handed perpetrators escaped on foot.

Police are not believed to be looking for people who are members of MENSA.

There’s lots of coverage online – read about events here at the Walsall Advertiser, there’s an article here at the Express & Star, another at the Birmingham Mail and even more coverage on the BBC.

Walsall Police issued the following statement:

Police have launched an investigation following an armed robbery at a bank in Aldridge today (9 December).

It is believed that three men armed with machetes, drove a dark blue transit van through a window at Barclays Bank,High Street at around 9.25am.

They entered the bank and threatened staff but were forced to leave empty-handed.

The men were seen running away from the bank towards Little Aston Road.

Officers are in the area and continue to search for the suspects.

Anyone with information is urged to call West Midlands Police on 101. Alternatively people can leave information anonymously by calling Crimestoppers the independent charity on 0800 555 111.

My sympathies to the staff and anyone else subjected to what must have been an desperately terrifying incident, and my regards to the police who I hope find these arseholes quickly.

If anyone has any info, please do contact Walsall Police by dialling 101  or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111