Wigan shop robber's knife threat

Damien Rutter, 42, of no fixed address, appeared before a Bolton Crown Court judge to plead guilty to robbing Susan Bowes of £18.50 worth of groceries in Wigan.

The hearing was told that at 6pm on June 29, Rutter selected four packs of fishcakes, one pack of steak, and a pack of chops in McColls on Marsh Green. The shop supervisor saw him do this and locked the door.

He said: “You had best open it: I’ve got a knife” and put his hand in his pocket. He then pushed Ms Bowes aside, opened the door and fled with the goods.

“He dropped them on the ground and when someone went to pick them up he said: “Leave it, I’ve got a knife,” gathered up the goods and walked away.

Rutter was remanded in custody until sentencing on September 7.