Finchley: A Queensbury bookmakers manager is still in hospital with a shattered leg after a vicious armed robbery earlier this month.

Three black youths wearing balaclavas stormed into Admiral's Bookmakers in Queensbury Station Parade, demanding cash at 4.45pm on December 8. Two of the robbers vaulted the counter, and one held a carving knife to the neck of the 40-year-old assistant manager.

The third robber attacked the manager after he refused to hand over the cash, punching him to the floor and jumped on his leg, shattering his ankle.

The gang then stole about £2,000, including £300 in change, and ran off down a nearby alleyway. They were all believed to be aged between 14 and 18. Police believe a fourth person joined them outside.

The 30-year-old manager was taken to Northwick Park Hospital in Harrow where he was due to be operated on for the injuries to his leg.

Detective Constable Ian Wilson, of the Flying Squad in Finchley, said: "It really was a vicious attack. Jumping two-footed on a man's ankles is clearly going to lead to serious injuries."

Anyone with information should call 020 8733 5751.

December 24, 2001 11:30