A GARAGE worker was threatened at gunpoint by a masked robber.

The man walked into the BP petrol station on the A66 near Sadberge, outside Darlington, at about 6.30am on Saturday.

He pointed a shotgun at the assistant and demanded money and cigarettes be put into a dark holdall, possibly black.

He then ordered the assistant into a storeroom and made his getaway.

Inspector Frank Rogan said the garage assistant did not see the masked man arrive or leave, but it was thought he made off in a vehicle.

When the garage assistant thought it was safe to come out of the storeroom, he phoned the police.

Insp Rogan said the robber got away with a small amount of money and urged anyone who may know who was responsible to contact police.

"We need to catch this man because we are concerned for public safety.

"If someone is prepared to put themselves and the public at risk like this for a very small amount of money, it is of great concern to us."

The robber was described as being about 5ft 10in and wearing a black balaclava and dark jacket.

The owner of the garage refused to comment on the robbery yesterday.

Anyone who was in the area of the garage at about 6.30am on Saturday is asked to contact Darlington police on (01325) 467681.