POLICE are hunting a robber who held a shop assistant at knifepoint during a terrifying armed raid in Poole.

The lone raider was caught on camera after entering C&J Stores in Branksome at around 8.45 pm on Tuesday.

He demanded the takings and threatened a member of staff with a knife. After being handed an undisclosed sum of money the robber fled from the shop. No injuries were caused.

DC Jonathan Sainsbury from Bournemouth and Poole CID said: “This was a very distressing incident for the member of staff. I am releasing a CCTV image of a man who may be able to help us with our investigation.

“I would urge the man pictured, and anyone who recognises him, to contact us in confidence, as soon as possible. Anyone who witnessed this incident or has information about the man responsible should call police urgently.”

Staff at the off-licence, newsagent’s and food store were too shocked to speak about their ordeal after opening as normal yesterday. But neighbours said they were stunned to hear there had been a robbery on their doorstep.

Retired police officer Clive Nelson, 80, who lives opposite, said: “There is never any trouble in this area. We have been here since 1983 and the shop was trading when we arrived although the owners have changed. I saw a police car outside but didn’t realise what was happening. The store normally closes at| around 10 pm.”

A woman living within sight of the shop said: “We came here from London two and a half years ago. I heard sirens and when I looked out the window I saw police officers going inside the shop before shutting the door. I’m surprised to hear the shop was robbed – it’s normally so quiet here.”

Branksome West councillor Karen Rampton said: “It’s happening a lot, it would seem. Winston Avenue is such a lovely quiet road. With the school (St Aldhelm’s C of E Combined) just up the road, this will worry people.”

Witnesses and anyone with information should call 101, quoting incident number 05:492 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.