A MASKED robber tried to hold up a husband and wife who had run Cwmtillery post office for nearly 40 years.
As they worked behind the counter in the quiet village, Sean George, 26, appeared with a scarf over his face and a petrol can in his hands.
As he demanded money, he struck the safety glass screen with such force that it cracked, prosecutor Gareth Jones told Cardiff Crown Court, where George of Bishop Street, Abertillery, was jailed for three and a half years.
His lookout was 17-year-old Stephen Roberts of Newall Street, Abertillery who was described in references as “considerate, caring, polite and respectful”.
His barrister Marion Lewis said he was also naive, immature and easily led by the older man.
He was sent into custody for 12 months by Judge Patrick Curran QC who told both men: “Together you planned to rob a village post office and bring terror a couple in their 60s who had worked there for 39 years.”
He said former drug addict George had been the prime mover and the one who attempted to disguise his appearance but Roberts had willingly gone along with it.
Postmaster Delwyn Jarrett, 63, and his wife Dorothy, 60, were described as having had their confidence shattered on November 18 last year at Eastside post office.
Judge Curran said: “Mr Jarrett could clearly see the petrol can and his wife who was some distance away could smell the fumes as you demanded the cash.
“Both became extremely frightened as the glass was cracked and it was fortunate Mrs Jarrett was able to set off the alarm and you had to leave empty-handed.
“The terror you caused is clear from victim impact statements made by them – it has had a lasting effect.
“They were vulnerable victims who were deliberately targeted.”
Both George and Roberts admitted attempted robbery.
I predict that Mr George will spend less than 18 months in custody Should any of the various agencys that care more for the criminal than the victim get involved it will be in very pleasant surroundings I believe the punishment should reflect on what could have happened had he ignited the fuel major loss of life and servere damage to property ect The 17 year old defendant had the services of a Barrister lucky 17 year old unbelieverable
Rocke
It would have been better if Roberts had gone in and George looked out.
Imagine, the 'considerate, polite, caring and respectful' lad:
"Excuse me please Mr. Postmaster. My mate outside has a can full of petrol which you might feel he will pour all over the place, possibly even igniting it.
"I worry about your health if that happens and so I wonder if you would hand me the money you have behind there so I can pay him off.
"Speed needs to be of the essence but don't give yourself a heart attack, even though he may become impatient and attempt to smash the security glass that separates us from you.
"Oh dear he has become impatient but I must protest that your good lady has activated the alarm.
"We must depart now but I'm sure we'll be around in a couple of months to enquire of your health".
