STAFF from a Newport supermarket hit by an armed robbery this year have gathered in“solidarity” by holding a charity event in support of crime victims.

Costumed characters, baked goods and family activities were on offer at the Co-op store in Cromwell Road today to raise money for Gwent’s Victim Support branch.

The charity supported one of the victims of the July 7 incident, which saw Nicholas Overton, 39, raid the Somerton store with a machete while wearing a blonde wig, hat and a long black dress.

Victim services and engagement officer at Victim Support, Yasmin Lynch, joined staff on the day to raise funds, extending a “huge heartfelt thank you” to the shop workers.

“Like so many other innocent victims of crime, this lady simply found herself in the wrong place at the wrong time when she experienced a highly traumatic and terrifying robbery,” she said.

“I have been in awe of her bravery and was truly touched when she told me that she wanted to organise this fundraiser to raise much needed funds for our important services here in Gwent.”

The store manager at the Newport supermarket, who preferred not to be named, said: “It’s all about the solidarity of the store and the organisation.

“The event has been really good so far. We have had customers, parents and families donate to the event.

“I think this is just something we will move forward with. We thought we would do something as a team together.

“We just want to say thanks to our customers and community.”

The event was supported by Gwent Police – who visited the store with their dog section – and fundraising totals are currently being counted.

Ms Lynch, of Victim Support, said: “Being a victim of a crime shatters everything you believe about your world and your place within it. It can be devastating.

“Our vision as an organisation is simple - to strive for a world where victims and witnesses are given the support they need and the help they deserve.

“With funds generated from events such as these we can innovate to make our local services even more effective and we have a greater chance of sustaining these critical services."

Shop robber, Overton, received a life sentence, with a minimum of four years imprisonment, at Cardiff Crown Court last month and if released, he will remain on licence for the rest of his life.

For more information on Victim Support, visit: www.victimsupport.org.uk/help-and-support/get-help/support-near-you/wales/gwent