LOCAL police are appealing for witnesses after an armed robbery at a garage took place on the A40 at Lea during the evening of Wednesday February 18.

West Mercia Police report that at around 7.45pm a man entered Lea garage intimating to the shop assistant he had a firearm and demanded cash.

The man took a large quantity of cash from the shop and some cigarettes before fleaing the scene on foot in the direction of the border with Gloucestershire

Armed officers attended the location after the emergency call was made to the police.

The man is described as white and spoke with a British accent. He was wearing black clothing and a balaclava.

Members of the public can expect to see an increased police presence in the area today as enquiries are carried out.

Detective Inspector Dave Knight of Reactive CID said: “We are appealing for witnesses to come forward and assist with our investigation into this robbery.

“We understand that an incident of this nature can be alarming to the public, but we would like to reassure people it is believed to be an isolated one.

“We are working with neighbouring forces to track down the suspect, and you can expect to see officers from West Mercia in the area today working on our investigation and reassuring people living nearby.

“We would encourage any eyewitnesses or anyone with any CCTV or dashcam footage from around the time of the incident to please come forward.”

Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting log 434i of 18 February or email DS Kevin Powell at [email protected].

Alternatively, if you have information but don’t feel comfortable speaking to police, you can speak to the independent charity Crimestoppers.

It is 100 per cent anonymous, they never ask your name, and they cannot trace your call or IP address. You can contact them online or by calling 0800 555 111.