Witness appeal after robbery in Christchurch

Officers are investigating a robbery in Christchurch and are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.

The incident happened at approximately 6.30pm on Monday 27 July 2026 at the One Stop store in Barrack Road, when a member of the public intervened after a shoplifter managed to get away from the shop.

The offender is described as a white man with messy black hair, carrying a large black holdall.

The victim – a local man in his 50s – attempted to remove the bag from the suspect before being assaulted and was subsequently taken to hospital for treatment.

Following the incident, the victim reported that some personal effects were missing, presumed taken by the man.

Police Constable Oliver Hudson, of Dorset Police, said: “We are making numerous enquiries, including checking CCTV.

“There were other members of the public at the location during that time and I am appealing for anyone who witnessed what happened to please contact us, in particular a car of lads who reportedly assisted the victim at the time trying to catch the suspect.

“I would also ask motorists to please check their dashcams in case they have caught anything as they passed the area.

“This was a serious assault on an innocent member of the public and I urge anyone with information that may assist us with our investigation to please come forward.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police online or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55260114959. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online using its website or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.