Knifeman strikes at store

A robber wielding a kitchen knife fled with cash and cigarettes after raiding a Telford off-licence. The man struck at The Local in Queen Street, Madeley, last night, detectives said.Police believe he was loitering outside for some time before he made his move.

He entered the shop at about 7.45pm, holding a kitchen knife, and deman- ded staff fill his bag with cigarettes.

The staff refused to co-operate and the man then moved behind the counter and attempted to help himself, detectives said.

He stole £50 from the till and about 20 packets of cigarettes before a member of staff set off an alarm.

On hearing the alarm the robber ran from the store, turning right, having left the shop through the main entrance.

Detective Sergeant Billy Scott said: "We believe that several witnesses may have seen the offender before he committed this robbery.

"It seems that he waited outside the shop for some time before committing this crime and we are keen to hear from anyone who believes they may have seen this man in the area in the 45 minutes before the robbery."

The raider is white, about 6ft tall and was wearing a blue hooded top.

He is also thought to have been wearing a white hooded top underneath the blue one.

He is described as having his face covered with a scarf.

Anyone who believes they may have information about this incident is asked to contact officers in CID at Malinsgate Police Station on 08457 444 888.