Leeds hair salon robber locked up

Paul Walker, 36, was jailed for 16 months over the robbery at the hairdressers on Long Row, Horsforth, Leeds, on May 16 this year.

Leeds Crown Court heard Walker targeted the premises at 9pm as the owner was taking payment from her last customer of the day.

Robert Galley, prosecuting, said Walker went inside the salon and asked the owner for change from the till.

He then made a lunge for cash when she opened it. The woman was then pushed backward’s as she tried to stop him and he fell on the floor.

Mr Galley said Walker then began “flailing” at the two woman who fought back against him.

The owner grabbed hold of Walker’s pony tail during the struggle as she tried to detain him. Walker managed to take £50 in cash before running off. He was arrested later that day.

Walker, of Holt Farm Rise, Adel, pleaded guilty to robbery.

Walker has a previous conviction for attempted robbery in similar circumstances when he targeted a shop owner

Jayne Dodson, mitigating, said Walker had a long-standing addiction to heroin and cocaine and was desperate for cash to fund his £70 a day habit.

Miss Dodson said: “He realises that it is selfish behaviour and he acted in a way that put others in fear for their safety.”

Judge Neil Clark said: “If there is a silver lining here, it is this - It is quite remarkable and good news in many ways that there are women in Leeds that have such bravery and fortitude. These two woman did not know the type of man they were dealing with.

“Such courage and fortitude should be commended.”