POLICE are hunting a man who carried out an armed robbery wearing a Star Wars character mask and brandishing a silver gun.
The man, believed to be in his early twenties, was wearing a mask of Darth Maul, from the film Phantom Menace, when he went into the Spar shop in Marton Road, in the Grove Hill area of Middlesbrough, on Tuesday, and threatened staff and customers.
He demanded money from the till and terrified staff handed over a substantial amount of cash.
The robber ran off across Marton Road and into the Grove Hill estate.
Detective Inspector Derek Carter said: "This was a terrifying ordeal for both members of staff and customers in the store. It undoubtedly spoilt their Christmas.
"I would urge people to contact us if they have any idea who was responsible for the robbery."
The man was aged 20 to 25, spoke with a local accent and was between 5ft 8in and 6ft tall.
He was wearing a big hooded jacket and jeans.
Det Insp Carter said: "This person is going to have a lot more cash than he normally would at Christmas.
"If anyone has any suspicions about anyone spending more than usual, they can contact me on (01642) 303126."
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