Shopkeeper fights off armed robber with mop

Police have shared footage of a shopkeeper using a mop to fight off a knife-wielding robber suspected of targeting a string of shops in Derbyshire.

The CCTV video was released following seven robberies in Derby and Ilkeston over the past five weeks.

The force said the suspect had not physically harmed anyone during any of the robberies - which police are treating as being linked - but said significant amounts of cash had been stolen.

Independent charity Crimestoppers is now offering a reward of up to £1,000 for information.

The force said the first three robberies happened in Derby between 18:00 and 21:32 GMT on 5 October, with the suspect described as wearing a bright orange top.

Another shop was targeted in Derby on 6 October followed by a fifth on 14 October in Ilkeston.

Two more shops were robbed in Chaddesden and Oakwood on Wednesday and Thursday respectively.

The suspect in the later incidents was described as wearing dark or black joggers or tracksuit bottoms, a navy hoodie and a face covering.

Ch Insp Chris Thornhill said: "I know there are people in the community who know who this man is – and they know that the right thing to do is to come forward."

"We are increasing both our uniformed and plain clothes patrols in the city – as well as armed response officers including potential targets as part of their patrol strategies."

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