Man jailed for betting shop robberies

A man has been jailed in connection with a series of robberies at bookmakers in Hertford and Ware.

Graham Radcliffe, aged 37, of Bircherley Green, Hertford, was sentenced to a total of four and a half years imprisonment at St Albans Crown Court on Tuesday 27th May.

He had previously pleaded guilty to:

• Three counts of robbery
• One count of attempted robbery
• Four counts of possessing an imitation firearm at the time of committing an offence.

The offences occurred at three bookmakers in Hertford and Ware between Saturday 25th January and Monday 3rd February this year.

Radcliffe used an imitation firearm to intimidate staff into handing over money. A total of £6,000 was stolen.

He was arrested shortly after an attempted robbery at William Hill in Ware High Street on Monday 3rd February.

At court, Radcliffe was sentenced to 54 months for each robbery and attempt robbery offence, and 36 months for each firearm offence, all to run concurrently.

Detective Constable Edward Law led the investigation. He said: "During the sentencing hearing, the judge praised all the staff involved for behaving commendably, keeping calm and making sure that no one was hurt during what would have been a terrifying ordeal for them.

"I'm pleased with the sentence handed down to Mr Radcliffe and I hope it enables him to reflect and change his ways."