Another bank robbery on Ham Parade

12.00.00am BST (GMT +0100) Thu 10th Oct 2002

Thursday's bank robbery in Ham at HSBC graphically underlines the need for CCTV.

This is the second armed robbery on Ham Parade in six weeks, following the attack on Barclays. Everyone will wish the injured Securicor guard a quick recovery from his gunshot wound.

Sir David Williams, one of Ham's local councillors, has already discussed the shooting with Tony Arbour, Leader of Richmond Council and a member of the Metropolitan Police Authority, and asked him to use his influence to protect Ham's shopping centre.

Councillor Williams said, "The Council and the police urgently need to reassure the banks' staff, the shopkeepers and the shoppers that Ham Parade will be given priority in installing better security and deterrence against armed robbers. I am asking for a comprehensive CCTV installation."

"One of the reasons Lloyds Bank gave for closing their Ham Parade branch in March 2000 was two armed robberies in the previous year. Small shopping centres are being targeted by violent criminals. Our local community has to be properly protected and adequately policed."

"End.