Bungling bank robber flees empty-handed (From Watford Observer)

Santander's Northwood branch in failed armed raid

5:39pm Monday 8th October 2012 in News By Ben Endley, Senior reporter

A would-be bank robber proved the pen is not mightier than the sword when his attempt to hold up a bank using a hand-written note fell flat.

The man entered the Santander bank on Green Lane, Northwood on Saturday at around 10.45am and presented the cashier with a letter demanding money and claiming he had a gun.

Armed officers rushed to the scene after staff raised the alarm but the hapless villain had already fled empty-handed after being disturbed by customers entering the branch.

Despite the man’s claim, no firearm was seen by witnesses.

The suspect is described as a black male wearing a cream baseball cap, a light blue scarf, black bomber jacket, black trousers and brown trainers.

A Santander spokesman said "We can confirm that an incident occurred at the Santander branch in Northwood and that we are working with the police to fully investigate."

The incident is now under investigation by the Flying Squad’s Barnes-based team and anyone with information is asked to contact them on 0208 247 7932 or anonymously on Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.