A shop assistant who was forced to hand over cash at knifepoint in a robbery at a Colchester store has warned other shop workers that it not worth risking their life for the sake of cash.

Dick Page was getting ready to close up Chris and Dave's Family Store on Bergholt Road when a man walked in wearing a balaclava and brandishing a knife and demanded cash.

But the thief got away with under £100 after the robbery at 9pm on Friday evening as workers keep a minimum of money in the store, which is open seven days a week.

Mr Page, 52, said: "He wanted me to open the till and said he had been watching the shop and he threatened me.

"When you have got a knife in front of you - just a few inches away from my chest - there was no way I was going to refuse."

He advised other shop assistants: "Your life's not worth losing for a few quid."

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Any witnesses are asked to contact Det Con White on 01206 762212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

Published Monday January 14, 2002