A ROBBER is believed to have threatened store staff with a machete before escaping with cash last night.

The raid happened on MNS News and Wine on Jubits Lane, Sutton Manor at about 10.15pm on Thursday.

The man, who was in possession of what was believed to be a machete, made off with a quantity of money in the direction of Tennyson Street.

The offender is described as white and was wearing a dark coat, black cap and sunglasses and had a local accent.

Detectives attended the shop, spoke with witnesses and are now examining CCTV.

Detective Inspector Martin Earl said, "Our officers are continuing the search for the man responsible for this robbery.

“I am sure the local community will be as appalled as I am at this incident, in which a man has threatened a shop owner who was only doing his job.

"If anyone was in the area at the time and saw a man acting suspiciously at around the time of the incident, then please contact police.

“Your information, no matter how trivial you may think it is, could go a long way in catching the offender and bringing him to justice."

Anyone with information is asked to contact St Helens CID on 0151 777 6038 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.