A KNIFE-wielding robber who escaped with cash from a local store is being hunted by police.

Two female staff were behind the counter at Masefield News, a newsagents and off-licence in Masefield Close, East Stanley, when the robber burst in at about 7.40pm on Sunday (nov1).

The man, who was brandishing a large kitchen knife, demanded that the terrified staff hand over money from the till.

They gave the robber an unknown sum and he fled. The two women were left shocked but did not need hospital treatment.

The robber was wearing dark clothing with a hood and his face was covered.

Police believe customers at the fish and chip shop next door may have witnessed the incident.

Police are appealing to anyone who was in, or near, the shop at the time of the incident to call Stanley CID on 0345 60 60 365 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.