Police are hunting for an armed robber who struck at a KFC restaurant after climbing through a drive-thru window – dressed as SANTA CLAUS.
The knife-wielding thug donned the festive disguise to hold up the fast food outlet at around 10.30pm on Saturday (19/12).
Workers were left stunned after watching the man dressed as Father Christmas clamber through the window before demanding cash while brandishing a 12 inch blade.
After being given access to the safe he then then fled the restaurant in Alfreton, Derbys., with hundreds of pounds in cash.
Yesterday (Mon) Derbyshire Police confirmed they were searching for a stocky suspect wearing a red hat, jacket and trousers as well as a black top.
A force spokesman said they had also deployed a specialist team including police dogs to track down the robber, who is believed to be Asian.
He added: “A man dressed as Father Christmas robbed a fast food restaurant at knifepoint.
“At around 10.30pm a man climbed in through the drive-through window at KFC, in Hockley Way, Alfreton.
“He produced a knife, threatened staff and demanded money before leaving with cash.
“The robber is described as being about 5ft 10ins tall and stocky. He wore a red hat, red trousers and a red jacket over a black top. He had his face covered.
“He also had red trousers with a Santa theme and black trainers on. This was quite a nasty case.
“If anyone has seen anyone fitting the description, then ring us on 101 so we can try to piece together what has happened afterwards because it has been quite traumatic for those involved.”
One member of staff, who refused to be named, said yesterday (Mon): “I don’t work weekends but my colleagues were really shook up.
“They thought they were on a prank show at first until they saw the knife. We just want him caught. It was really scary.”
A KFC Spokesman added: “We can confirm there was a robbery at the Alfreton drive thru.
“Thankfully the restaurant was shut and no-one was hurt but we are offering employees any support they need.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Derbyshire Police, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
