A KNIFE-WIELDING raider jumped over the counter of a Spar shop and stole the till, said police.

Officers are appealing for help in tracing an armed robber who struck at the store in Yetminster, near Sherborne at around 12.30pm on Tuesday January 9..

It was reported that a man armed with a knife jumped over the counter and stole the till before making off in a Blue Renault Clio. The vehicle was seen to drive off along Thornford Road in the direction of Chetnole.

The till was later recovered near to the scene in Stonyacres.

Detective Sergeant Nicky Jenkins, of Dorset Police, said: “I am appealing for any witnesses to this incident to contact police immediately. I am particularly keen to speak to a woman who was in the shop at the time of the offence who has not yet spoken to police.

“I appreciate this incident has caused concern for the village community and officers have been carrying out reassurance patrols in the area.”

A 39-year-old man and a 32-year-old woman, both from Yeovil, have now been arrested on suspicion of robbery and are assisting officers with their enquiries.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police on 101 or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.