MP backs anti-violence campaign after Barnsley Co-op worker stabbed in robbery

South Yorkshire Police have released CCTV images after the 49-year-old Co-op worker suffered minor injuries to his abdomen during a robbery at the Keresforth Hill, Kingstone, store on Monday.

The man stole a number of bottles of spirits before fleeing the store in the direction of Raley Street.

Mr Jarvis said: “I am shocked and appalled by the horrendous attack on a shop worker at the Keresforth Hall Road Co-op. My thoughts are with them and their family and I wish them a speedy and full recovery.

“It is imperative that the perpetrator is apprehended as quickly as possible and punished for this wicked crime.

“No-one should face threats, abuse or intimidation as they go about their job. I have long campaigned on this vitally important issue, including putting forward an amendment to the Criminal Justice and Courts Bill in 2014 on tackling abuse against retail workers."

The incident coincides with Central England Co-op campaigning for the Government to change legislation so shop workers are afforded greater protection in carrying out their duties.

Recent figures have seen assaults jump by 100 per cent, threats and intimidation by 25 per cent and verbal abuse by 175 per cent since the start of the year. Since the lockdown was introduced, there have been over 100 incidents related directly to people using Covid-19 as a threat.

Anyone with information should contact 101 quoting incident number 922 of 20 July 2020. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers via their website Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555 111.