A BAREFOOT thief threatened staff with a knife at an Ombersley petrol station during a robbery in the early hours of Friday (September 21).

Police say the man, who had his face covered, walked into the Northwick Service Station in Ombersley Road at around 3.30am, showed staff the knife and demanded they hand over money and cigarettes.

He stole a small amount of cash and some cigarettes before leaving in the direction of Northwick Road.

Police have released CCTV images of the man who is described as white and did not speak good English.

He was wearing a dark two-tone hooded top, black at the top and grey at the bottom, with light blue jeans, blue and grey socks on his hands, pink/purple flower pattern sunglasses and light grey bandana across his face.

He was not wearing any shoes when he carried out the robbery.

Officers, including a police dog team, made an immediate search of the area in an attempt to locate the man.

Police are appealing for any witnesses who saw a man acting suspiciously in the area just before or after the robbery, or who can provide any information that could lead to his identification.

Witnesses are asked to call DC 3296 Andy Daniel in Worcester CID on 101, extension 67051. Information can also be provided anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.