Woman jailed following armed robbery in Winsford

A woman has been jailed following an armed robbery at a convenience store in Winsford.

Angela Hughes of Pentland Close, Winsford, appeared in Chester Crown Court on Monday 19 September, where she was sentenced to four years and nine months.

The 45-year-old had earlier pleaded guilty to robbery and possession of a bladed article.

During the hearing the court heard how at around 10:30pm on Thursday 18 August, Hughes entered a Spar Store on Delamere Street, Winsford.

Once inside, she produced a knife and began threatening staff demanding that they handed over money from the tills.

She then fled the scene with a quantity of cash.

Officers attended the scene and after reviewing CCTV footage, Hughes was quickly identified as the suspect.

Enquiries to locate her began and she was subsequently located at around 11.40am on Saturday 20 August after Central Motorway Policing Group stopped a car she was travelling in on the M6.

Following questioning she was charged with robbery and possession of a bladed article.

Following Hughes’ sentencing, Detective Constable Kelly Mankee said: “This was a terrifying ordeal for all those involved, and I welcome the sentence that has been handed to Hughes.

“She is a prolific offender and has showed absolutely no regard for both the store workers and members of the public who were also present.

“Thankfully, as a result of a thorough investigation, and the strength of evidence gathered against her, Hughes was left with no option but to plead guilty.

“I hope that the outcome of this case demonstrates to local residents how seriously we treat robbery, and also acts as a warning to others who are intent on committing crime.”