UPDATE: Gunpoint robbery linked with other armed robbery in Sompting

The incident in Sompting took place at the Sompting Mini-Market in Seadown Parade about 10.15pm on Saturday, August 13, during which a masked man armed with a gun stole cash and cigarettes.

The Sompting robbery is being linked with yesterday’s gunpoint robbery at the Worthing bookmakers, where a man got away with £70 in a bag for life,

Witnesses of either event are asked to contact police.

Officers were called to Ladbrokes in Rowlands Road about 7.53pm on Thursday following reports of a man with a gun.

The offender walked into the bookies, where customers and staff were present, and demanded money from the till.

He got away with about £70 in cash and was seen to run north along Wordsworth Road.

No one was harmed during the incident.

Detective Sergeant Simon Dunn said: “We’re appealing for anyone who may have witnessed the robbery – or seen anyone acting suspiciously in the area around the time – to get in touch.

“This was an understandably distressing incident for the victims and witnesses involved, and thankfully no one was harmed.

“All efforts are now being put in place to find those responsible and I would urge anyone with any information no matter how insignificant you think that might be, to get in touch. Your help will be treated in the strictest confidence.”

A spokesperson for Ladbrokes confirmed the company is assisting police with their enquiries.

The incident is being linked to a robbery at Sompting Mini-Market at about 10.15pm on Saturday, August 13, during which a masked man armed with a gun stole cash and cigarettes.

Witnesses are asked to contact [email protected] or call 101, quoting serial 1383 of 18/08.

Alternatively, members of the public can call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 (www.crimestoppers-uk.org).