Detectives were called in following the terrifying incident at Bet Fred in the Thornton Centre, Thornton, at around 5.45pm yesterday.

The robber entered the store with a black scarf covering his face and passed a "threatening note" to the cashier.

He handed him a dark-coloured rucksack and - fearing for their safety - the clerk was forced to put several hundred pounds inside.

The thug then fled the store, running towards Victoria Road and crossing over Alexandra Road before possibly getting into a vehicle and driving off.

Officers want to speak to a white male, of skinny build and around 5ft 11in tall.

He was wearing glasses, a black beanie hat pulled down over his face, a black scarf, black woollen gloves, a waist length dark brown or green jacket and dark-coloured trousers.

Det Sgt Andy Hoyle, of Fleetwood CID, said: "This incident probably lasted no longer than a minute and fortunately no one was hurt, although the cashier has understandably been left shaken by the experience.

"I would ask anyone who may have seen this man, either beforehand or possibly running from the shop afterwards, to contact police."

Anyone with information can contact Fleetwood Police on (01524) 63333 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.