A man threatened a newsagent employee at knifepoint during a Maple Cross robbery last night.

Hertfordshire Constabulary is appealing for information following the robbery at McColls newsagents, in Chalfont Road, at 9.50pm.

The criminal, who wore a scarf across his face, entered the store and threatened the worker with a knife. The money and cigarettes were placed in a pillow case and the man ran off.

Police believe he may have got into a vehicle parked in Oakhill Close.

The robber is described as white, of medium build, 6ft 1ins tall and in his mid-20s to mid-30s. He was wearing a dark grey hooded top, blue jeans, white trainers and gloves. He also had a scarf across his face.

Detective Constable Steve Mason, from the Local Crime Unit, said: “The shop worker was not injured but very frightened during the robbery.

“I would like to appeal for witnesses to come forward. In particular the chip shop next door was still open. Did you witness a man matching this description in the area at the time?

“Did you see someone running out and getting into a car in Oakhill Close?”

Anyone with information is asked to contact DC Mason on 101 or to call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.