A ROBBER fled empty-handed from a Poole convenience store after threatening staff with a pipe on Sunday evening.

No-one was injured in the botched robbery, that took place at Premier Stores on the junction of Maple Road and Kingston Road, but a shop worker was hit on the shoulder during the attack.

Detectives said the suspect, who was dressed in black and wearing a balaclava, hit a staff member with the pipe - or something similar - after demanding money from the till.

When the shocked cashier called out for help the man ran off towards Garland Road.

Acting Detective Sergeant Katie Savill, of Bournemouth and Poole CID, said: “I would like to speak to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or have any more information.

“We are also trying to find out whether items such as a balaclava, pipe or length of wood may have been discarded by the offender when he fled.

“I would encourage those living in the vicinity to check areas such as front gardens and bins for such items.”

Police say a man was seen loitering outside the shop before entering. The offender was dressed head-to-toe in black clothing - coat, trousers, trainers and balaclava.

The incident unfolded around 8pm on Sunday, February 15.

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police on 1010 quoting incident number 15:398.