POLICE are appealing for witnesses following a robbery at an off-licence in Burnley.

Around 5.15pm on Sunday, January 30, a man entered 'Pommy's' off licence on Lyndhurst Road.

The man, who was in possession of a knife, threatened the male shop assistant and ordered him to lock the front door, before stealing a quantity of cigarettes and money from the till.

Fortunately, the assistant was not physically hurt during the incident but was left very distressed.

The offender was dressed all in black with his hood up and was wearing what is believed to be a balaclava to hide his face.

He is described as being 5'7" tall, of skinny build and spoke with a local accent.

Detective Constable Phil Pilkington said: "I would appeal to anybody who may have been in the area at the time of the robbery, who noticed anything suspicious to contact police.

"I would also like to speak with anyone who thinks they have any information at all about this incident which could assist with this investigation."

Anybody with any information should contact police on 08451 25 35 45 or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.