Appeal For Information - Attempted Robbery, Virginia Street, Southport

Merseyside Police is appealing for information after an attempted robbery in Southport yesterday evening, Wednesday 12 October. At around 7.20pm, a call was received stating that a masked male had entered a shop on Virginia Street in possession of a gun and made threats towards a customer, before making off empty handed. The male is described as white, 14-15 years old, 5ft 10in, wearing a red or pink sports style hooded jacket, what has been described as a Spiderman mask, and dark bottoms and trainers. The gun is described as a BB-style handgun, possibly an imitation weapon. CCTV and witness enquiries are ongoing. Detective Inspector Robbie Moss from Sefton CID said: "Those in the shop were unhurt but understandably distressed to be threatened with what had the appearance of a firearm, regardless of whether it was real or fake. "I would appeal to anyone in the Virginia Street area around 7.20pm who saw the offence or a masked male acting suspiciously is urged to contact police, as any detail could be key to our investigation. "We have spoken with the owners and staff to offer reassurance but I want to assure all businesses that we will do everything possible to identify this offender and bring him to justice, and ensure Sefton is a safe place to live, work and visit." Anyone with information on this incident is asked to call Sefton CID on 0151 777 3844, call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.