Post office protection 'too late'

Graham Westley took on the post office 14 months ago

Police in Suffolk have promised to do more to help protect post offices in rural areas.

The move follows a series of armed raids across the county in recent months.

But the promise has come too late for one shop owner.

Graham Westley took on the post office in the small village of Hacheston, near Woodbridge, 14 months ago.

Now he is selling up, claiming the business is too risky.

In his time at the shop there have been three raids, the latest just before Christmas.

Safety 'paramount'

"There were two guys - one burst through with a sawn-off shotgun and balaclava screaming 'Give me the money'.

"I proceeded to do that and he made me lie down and put the gun over the counter to my head."

Mr Westley said he was not the type who scared easily but he has had enough.

He also believes post office officials could have done more to help with security.

The promise of more protection has come too late

A Post Office spokesman said on Friday they would not comment on a specific case.

The spokesman added that the safety of its customers and staff was of paramount importance.

Security was being constantly reviewed in liaison with police to reduce the vulnerability of post offices, especially in rural areas.

Rick Munns, of Suffolk Police, said the raids, though pre-planned, were carried out very quickly so police needed to be able to respond quickly.

More resources, including the use of the force's helicopter, were being targeted at areas which were considered particularly vulnerable.