Violent armed robber who targeted Dukinfield store is behind bars

An armed robber who repeatedly subjected staff at a Dukinfield store to "violent and unprovoked attacks" has been jailed for 10 years. 

Michael Gilworth (pictured), of Mount Street in Hyde, was sentenced to 10 years in prison for burglary and armed robbery at Manchester's Minshull Street Crown Court - seven years and six months of which must be served before he is considered for release on license. 

The 33-year-old persistently targeted staff at McColls on Astley Street, Greater Manchester Police said. 

On Saturday 5 September this year, Gilworth jumped over the counter and stole numerous bottles of spirits before making off with the items and leaving staff shaken.

The following day, he returned and targeted a female member of staff who was on her own. He threatened her with a knife, making off with cigarettes and cash from the till.  

Officers quickly attended and, following a swift initial investigation, found Gilworth in a nearby estate after a brief foot chase. 

DC Holmes, from CID on the Tameside Division, said: "These were violent and unprovoked attacks on shop staff during the course of their working day - one of which was committed with the use of a bladed article which left staff understandably frightened and distressed, both in the long term and the short term.

"This conviction is a result of great team work between CID, Response and CSI / forensic officers. The lengthy sentence is indicative of the appalling and violent nature of the offences." 

On both occasions, Gilworth was accompanied by another man who police say hasn't yet been identified. Anyone with information about this can pass it on anonymously via Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.