A BALACLAVA-clad raider robbed a newsagent owner at knifepoint and escaped with cash from the till at the weekend.

Lakhy News, in Stalls Farm Road, Droitwich, was hit at around 6.15pm on Friday by a single robber.

The man, who was wearing a ski mask, entered the shop and produced a knife to the male shop owner, who was alone in the store at the time. He then demanded cash from the till.

An unknown quantity of money was handed over and the raider left the shop and ran off towards nearby Doverdale Close. The victim, who declined to be identified, was advised by police not to discuss the matter because of the on-going investigation.

He said: "I was alone at the time and I wasn't hurt.

"The police are investigating it because it is obviously pretty serious but I just want to leave it at that."

The raider is described as a white man, with a thin build and short, brown hair.

Police are appealing for anyone who was in the area of Droitwich at the time, and may have seen the man before or after the incident, to call Worcester CID on 08457 444888.

The incident comes four months after two balaclava-wearing robbers - one armed with a knife - struck at the Total petrol station, in Worcester Road, Droitwich and attempted to steal cash and cigarettes.

Then, in August, police in the town also appealed for witnesses following an armed robbery at the Tesco Express store, in Primsland Way. On this occasion, two men, one carrying what was believed to be a handgun, threatened members of staff and made off with a quantity of cash in a hold-all.