Westwood Cross Shopping Centre – Library image SCOPIX
A pensioner has been sentenced to two years in prison following a terrifying attempted robbery at a Broadstairs bank where he claimed to be armed with a firearm.
Gary Fishlock, 64, from Birchington, targeted the Westwood Cross branch on 29 January 2026. The incident unfolded at approximately 2:45 pm when Fishlock approached a front counter staff member and presented a chilling written note. The message stated, “I have a gun, put the money in the bag,” prompting the employee to immediately alert her colleagues to the perceived danger.
During the subsequent police investigation, the staff member recounted the moment she believed her life was at risk. She described how Fishlock held a concealed object inside a bag, pointing it toward the counter at knee height to simulate the presence of a weapon. As the situation escalated, Fishlock began shouting verbal demands for cash, repeatedly stating, “I want money, give me money.”
The bank’s employees acted decisively, retreating to secure rooms at the rear of the building to initiate emergency protocols. Kent Police received a 999 call reporting a male in possession of a firearm making threats. Despite the alarm being triggered, Fishlock remained inside the premises for a minute before leaving and waiting near the entrance.
Armed response officers arrived on the scene just 15 minutes after the initial report. Fishlock was arrested without incident, and a search of his belongings confirmed that the bag he used to intimidate staff contained no actual weapon. He was subsequently remanded in custody and charged with attempted robbery and possession of an imitation firearm in a public place.
After pleading guilty to both charges at an earlier hearing, Fishlock appeared at Canterbury Crown Court on Wednesday, 1 April 2026. The judge handed down a two-year custodial sentence, citing the reckless nature of the crime and the psychological impact on the victims.
Detective Constable Adam Pope said:
‘This was a frightening ordeal for the staff involved, who had no way of knowing whether the threat was real. Their quick actions ensured their own safety and allowed tactical officers to apprehend the suspect without delay. Fishlock’s behaviour was reckless and intimidating, and this sentence reflects the seriousness of his actions, as well as the emotional damage he has caused to those involved.’