Armed Robbers Caught After £80k Heist at Haslingden News
Police were called at 8.05am on September 13 following a terrifying robbery at Haslingden News on Manchester Road. The victim? A security guard attacked while filling a cash machine.
Brutal Attack Unfolds with Machete and Wood
Our investigation uncovered chilling details. Two masked men ambushed the guard—one wielded a hefty piece of wood, the other brandished a machete. The thugs, later identified as Gordon Hopkins (44) and Anthony Hughes (38), made off in a black Volkswagen Golf, stealing cash cassettes holding a whopping £80,000.
Chase Ends on M62: Desperate Escape Fails
Less than an hour later, the getaway car was spotted on the M62. West Yorkshire Police quickly intercepted it near Sowerby Bridge. Hughes bolted, dashing across live lanes and dropping his snood, which DNA later linked back to him.
Hopkins tried to hide in a garden, seen stuffing evidence into a wheelie bin while wearing gloves. A balaclava found there tied him straight to the crime.
The stolen cash was recovered from the Golf, along with a cloned number plate used to evade detection.
Heavy Jail Terms for Leeds Duo
Hughes of Coronation Parade and Hopkins of Spen Walk, both Leeds locals, pleaded guilty to robbery and possession of offensive weapons. Facing Recorder Nicholas Clarke QC at Burnley Crown Court, they were branded dangerous offenders.
Both men received huge custodial sentences of 13 years and 8 months, plus an extended licence of 3 years and 8 months.
DS Dave Bowler, East CID, said: “Hopkins and Hughes are dangerous individuals who travelled from West Yorkshire armed with weapons and intent on committing a pre-planned robbery. Their reckless and selfish actions could have easily resulted in somebody being seriously injured or even killed.”
“Thanks to the dedication of my colleagues in Lancashire and West Yorkshire, these criminals are now starting long custodial sentences. Even when released, they will be closely monitored.”
“This sentence sends a clear message – we will not tolerate armed criminals in Lancashire. We’ll use every resource to catch, charge, and convict offenders.”
