Man charged over betting shop robberies

Police investigating a robbery and an attempted robbery at two city bookmakers have arrested and charged a suspect.

The first incident happened in Betfred, South Parade, shortly after 8am on Tuesday 12 November.

It was reported a man tried to hop over the shop counter and made threats to harm a staff member before leaving the store empty-handed. No injuries were reported.

The second incident took place at Coral, in Alfreton Road, around 8.45am on Thursday 14 November.

A staff member was reportedly threatened and assaulted by a man who entered the store and demanded for the safe and till to be opened. He then left with a quantity of cash.

Leslie Bryan, aged 64, of Booth Close, Nottingham, was arrested on Saturday (16 November).

He was subsequently charged with robbery, possession of a knife in a public place, and attempted robbery. He is due to appear at Nottingham Magistrates’ Court today (Monday 18 November).

Detective Sergeant Rob Palethorpe, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “I’m pleased a man has been charged and placed before the courts in connection with these offences.

“Robbery is an incredibly serious offence that can have a lasting impact on those affected. That’s why we take all reports so seriously and will always do everything we can to investigate and get justice for victims.”