Village shop workers threatened by axe-wielding robber

AN axe-wielding robber threatened staff before snatching cash in an early morning raid on a shop in West Wellow, just outside the New Forest.

The Nisa Local shop in Salisbury Road was targeted around 5.30am on Sunday when the masked offender entered just after it had been opened for the day.

He threatened the staff with the axe before fleeing the store with an undisclosed quantity of money. No one was injured during the incident.

Detectives investigating the robbery have released CCTV images of the suspect and are urging people to come forward if they recognise his clothing or the backpack he was carrying.

He has been described as white, around 5ft 8ins tall and of slim build. He was wearing a khaki-coloured hooded jacket and dark trousers, and carrying a blue or purple rucksack.

The shop was targeted just after staff had opened for the day (Photo: Google)

DC David Jackson said: “This is a concerning incident. We are following lines of enquiry but we think the local community may be able to help our investigation.

“We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who recognises the clothing worn by the man in the CCTV images, or the backpack he is carrying.

“Were you in this area at the time and remember seeing someone wearing this clothing? Or perhaps you recognise the jacket and rucksack?”

DC Jackson added: “We’d also like to hear from anyone who has noticed anyone behaving suspiciously or out of character after this incident.”

Anyone with information should contact Hampshire police on 101, quoting crime reference number 44190403599, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.