Shop worker defies knifeman in Dyson vacuums theft bid

POLICE are calling for witnesses after an employee at a Rotherham DIY store fought off a robber who pulled a knife on him.

Workers at B&Q at the Cortonwood retail park near Brampton-Bierlow battled the man after spotting him trying to get away with several Dyson vacuum cleaners.

The incident happened around 6.50pm and the culprit is described by police as white, around 5ft 8in tall, slim, aged in his 30s with dark, short, curly hair.

A South Yorkshire Police spokeswoman appealed for anyone with information about the incident to contact officers.

She said: “The suspect jumped into a light green car near Morrisons. He was on a mobile telephone and was running around without a shirt on.

“We believe he was carrying a pocket pen knife but it didn’t appear he was threatening anyone.”

Anyone with information should contact South Yorkshire police on 0114 220 2020 quoting crime reference number 946-05/05/11 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

B&Q declined to comment in light of the on-going police investigation.