AN ARMED raider who struck at a family-run post office in a quiet suburb was chased off by the father.

The robber attacked the general store and Post Office on Broadway in Hengistbury Head in Bournemouth at 9.30am yesterday.

People told the Echo a handgun had been used, but police would not comment on that.

Kath Jackson, 45, from the convenience store next door, said: “I saw the guy run past but didn’t even take it in.

“It was when I saw the father Graham run past after him in his bare feet I knew something had happened.

“It all happened so quickly.

“They are a very nice family.”

Jordan Rose, 17, from Sunny’s Fish and Chips, said: “The girl Alex who works behind the counter texted my mum saying they got robbed and they had a gun held to them.

“I’m really shocked. This is a nice area. It’s not the sort of thing you’d expect.”

Karen Butcher, 48, from the charity office of CMT, said: “The police helicopter was right overhead.

“The family who run the post office are very friendly.”

Vicky Bruce, 29, a receptionist at Finest Smile Dental Studio, said: “The police said the man ran off towards Belle Vue Road.”

A shop worker, who asked not to be named, said: “I use it every day. They are a lovely family.

“The daughter is a lovely girl.”

Paul Charman, 62, visiting his father on Broadway, said: “The police were examining the phone box outside.”

Another trader said: “There were quite a few police vans.

“The most exciting thing you usually see around there is old people on mobility scooters.”

The Echo called the father Graham Shard but he said enquiries had to be directed to the Post Office. Scenes of crime officers were yesterday carrying out a forensic examination of the post office.

Detectives were making door-to-door inquiries. Dorset Police said they were investigating an armed robbery but gave no further details.

A spokesman said: “A lone man entered the premises, demanded money and left shortly afterwards.”

Witnesses are asked to call Dorset Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.