Police have launched an appeal to trace a man in connection with a reported armed robbery in Middlesbrough after his distinctive hand tattoo was spotted on CCTV.

The robbery, at Welcome Stores on Cumberland Road, took place at around 8pm on Monday 13th February. Two men entered the store, one with a large, bladed weapon.

The suspects left with the contents of the till and cigarette display before returning and attempting to remove items from the alcohol counter. When they left the shop the second time they made off on foot in the direction of Albert Park.

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The first male was wearing a black balaclava, a black Bench jacket with white detailing on both arms, blue Adidas jogging bottoms, black trainers, and carrying a Sports Direct bag for life and a large kitchen knife. 

Police are hoping the distinctive tattoo that's visible on his right hand may help lead to his arrest.

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A second male was wearing a makeshift maroon-coloured face covering, a high visibility coat with ‘security’ written on the back, black bottoms and white or grey Nike trainers, grey gloves. He was also believed to be in possession of a kitchen knife.

Anyone with information regarding the identity of the man in the image is asked to contact Middlesbrough CID on 101, quoting incident number 028618.

Information can be provided anonymously via independent charity Crimestoppers online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling 0800 555 111.