A ROBBER brandishing scissors threatened a shopkeeper after asking for cigarettes.

The robber targeted Select Convenience in Hastings High Street.

When the store worker had turned their back to the cigarette shelf, the robber went around the counter and demanded cash from the till.

The robber also took whisky bottles and tried to snatch an RNLI Lifeboat tin which was secured with a chain.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the robbery, which took place at 8.50pm on February 28, a Sunday.

The suspect wore a black hoodie with the hood up and a surgical mask covering his face.

He wore blue jeans, white trainers, and black gloves. He is about 5ft 10ins tall and of medium build.

Police said: “A man entered the store and initially asked for a packet of cigarettes. As the staff worker turned, the suspect walked around the counter and demanded cash from the till. “He was in possession of a pair of scissors.

“The man left the premises having taken an unknown quantity of cash in notes and coins, which he placed into a white carrier bag along with the cigarettes.

“He also took a few bottles of whiskey and snatched a RNLI collection tin from the counter, which had been secured with a chain.

“Upon leaving, he turned right in the general direction of Ore village. No injuries were reported.”

Anyone who saw what happened or saw anything suspicious in the area, or anyone with information is asked to call Sussex Police on 101 or report online quoting serial 1280 of 28/02.