Man Charged After Hammer-Wielding Robbery at Guisborough Jewellers

Jason Barstow, 29, of St Ann' Court, Hartlepool, was charged with robbery and possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence after allegedly smashing through the window of Market Cross Jewellers on Westgate, Guisborough, with a hammer shortly before 4pm on Saturday, March 14. He appeared before Teesside Magistrates' Court on Monday, March 16, where he did not enter a plea to either charge and was remanded in custody. He is next due at Teesside Crown Court on April 16 for a plea and trial preparation hearing.

Cleveland Police said Barstow smashed his way through the store's window with a hammer, terrified staff, and snatched items before running off. Teesside Live reported he grabbed handfuls of gold. Market Cross Jewellers described him as having "smashed the diamond window, threatened a member of staff and made away with quite a lot of stock."

The robbery was cut short by members of the public who chased and detained Barstow, holding him until officers arrived. Temporary Detective Sergeant Brayfield of Redcar CID said: "I'd like to thank the public-spirited people who bravely chased and held onto the suspect until we arrived at the scene." The shop confirmed stolen goods were recovered.

Market Cross Jewellers issued a statement that was as much a piece of local history as a thank-you note. The shop opened in 1980 behind the town's Market Cross, choosing the name so customers could find them when they couldn't yet afford a high street position. Over four decades, it has served the children and grandchildren of its original customers. On the afternoon of the robbery, four women were working the shop floor after what the store described as "a lovely, busy day serving customers with Mother's Day gifts." The statement read: "This incident left them extremely shaken and upset: it was quite terrifying for them, as you can imagine."

Anyone with information is asked to call Cleveland Police on 101, quoting reference SE26048090.