VIDEO: Watch the moment a robber holds up a shop worker in Leyland with a makeshift weapon

The intruder entered Towngate News in Towngate at around 6am on Monday, March 13.

He approached a male staff member and demanded the till was opened.

The offender then went behind the counter and continued demanding the worker open the cash register.

Eventually the raider threw the till on the floor, causing it to break, before stealing cash and making off from the scene.

Throughout the incident the man carried a makeshift weapon, believed to be an imitation firearm.

Detectives are urging anyone who recognises the offender to contact police.

Det Con Michael Mason, of Lancashire Police, said: “This was a shocking incident which has left the victim very shaken.

“A man has entered the newsagents shortly after it opened and threatened a staff member with a makeshift weapon.

“The raider has then smashed the till and made off with the contents.

“The offender was wearing some distinctive clothing. We believe someone must know who this individual is.”

The robber is described as male, 5ft 8in tall, of average build. He was wearing dark clothes and a hi-visibility vest with ‘Casey’ on the back.

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting crime reference SC1701917.

Alternatively independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at Crimestoppers-uk.org