Jail for pensioner who attempted to rob a bank in Broadstairs

A 64-year-old man has been jailed after attempting to rob a bank in Broadstairs while pretending to be armed with a gun.

Threats

On 29 January 2026, Gary Fishlock entered a bank in Westwood Cross and threatened the staff, demanding money. A member of staff working at the front counter was approached by Fishlock, who slid her a note reading: ‘I have a gun, put the money in the bag’.

She believed the threat to be genuine and immediately alerted her colleagues. During her police interview, she explained that the man was holding a concealed item inside a bag, which she feared was a firearm. She described how he pointed the bag slightly above knee height towards the counter, making it clear that something was inside.

Fishlock began to make further verbal demands, stating ‘I want money, give me money’. Employees quickly retreated to secure rooms at the back of the bank and contacted emergency services. A 999 call was made at 2.45pm, with the caller reporting that a male had entered their place of work and was in possession of a firearm, making threats and demanding money.

Fishlock stayed inside the bank for approximately one minute after the alarm had been sounded, before leaving and standing outside the entrance.

Arrested

Just 15 minutes after the initial call was made, firearms officers arrived on scene and arrested him, a search revealed that no weapon was inside the bag he had brought to the bank.

Fishlock was remanded in custody and later charged with attempted robbery and possession of an imitation firearm in a public place. He attended Margate Magistrates' Court the next day and later pleaded guilty to both charges.

On Wednesday 1 April 2026, Fishlock, of Shottendane Road, Birchington, was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment at Canterbury Crown Court.  

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.’