Police chief praises officers who were ordering drive-thru Starbucks when armed robbers stormed into coffee shop

Officers were ordering refreshments in the drive-thru at Starbucks at the St James Retail Park in Northampton at around 5am yesterday (Monday) when armed robbers stormed into Starbucks threatening staff with weapons and demanding money.

Little did the robbers know that armed police were already on the scene who then made chase.

Despite a 'violent resistance', one man was arrested.

Nick Adderley, the new Chief Constable for Northamptonshire Police, praised his officers following the incident.

He tweeted: "A fantastic job. Armed officers had to ‘self authorise’ draw their weapons and pursue the armed robbers.

"Offender arrested and cash recovered. Hopefully this will quieten downs those who criticise the police for having refreshments on duty!!

"Great work - thank you."

Responding to tweets, he later added: "I actively encourage my officers and staff to take refreshments (when they can) in public.

"Engaging with the public and being a visible deterrent is a big plus to this too."

A spokesman for Northamptonshire Police said a 29-year-old had been arrested on suspicion of robbery and was currently being questioned.

A search was taken place for the other man believed to have been involved.

Starbucks was forced to close following the robbery yesterday but had reopened by Monday afternoon.

Starbucks, which was taped off, apologised to customers for the inconvenience.

A spokesman said: "Our priority remains supporting our store team.”