AN armed police search is underway after a man armed with a handgun stole money from a Co-operative store.

Police officers received a report at 1.36pm on Wednesday, June 30 that a man, who was in possession of a handgun, entered the Co-op in Beaufoy Close, Shaftesbury.

Police say he demanded a shop worker to give him money and he left the shop with a quantity of cash.

The man is described as white, aged in his 40s, approximately five feet ten inches tall and of medium build. He was wearing white trainers, a white hat with ear flaps, a camouflaged jacket, plastic ski goggles and a mask. He was also carrying a white shopping bag.

Residents say armed police officers are in the area and the Co-operative store has been cordoned off as part of their investigations.

Detectives investigating the armed robbery in Shaftesbury are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.

Detective Inspector Nicky Jenkins, of Weymouth CID, said: “An investigation is underway into the incident and officers are carrying out searches of the local area to locate the man.

“I am appealing to anyone who witnessed what happened, or recognises the man from the description given, to please come forward urgently.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55210104201. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call freephone 0800 555 111.

  • Did you see what happened? Are you at the scene? Do you have any photos or video to share? Email me at michael.taylor@newsquest.co.uk