A MAN wearing a balaclava and armed with a hammer fled empty-handed from a County Durham newsagents after an attempted robbery.

Witnesses are being sought following the attempted robbery at McColl’s Newsagents, on Oakfield, Newton Aycliffe, on Saturday (May 21).

Police said a male in a balaclava and armed with a hammer entered the store at around 10.20pm and demanded cash from the "terrified" staff.

The male, who was described as wearing dark clothing, left the scene empty-handed and no one was injured.

Police are now appealing to speak to anyone who has information or who witnessed anything suspicious in the area around the time of the incident.

DC Sunil Weerasinghe, of Durham Police, said: “This was an extremely upsetting incident for the staff in the store who were understandably left very shaken.

"Thankfully, no one was injured and the suspect left the store with nothing.

“We are keen to speak to anyone who saw anything suspicious in the vicinity of the newsagents around the time that this happened, or anyone who may be able to help us identify the person responsible.”

The Northern Echo contacted staff at the store who said they were unable to comment.

However, a spokesperson for McColl’s said: “The health, safety and well-being of our employees is of utmost importance.

"We are working closely with the relevant authorities in response to this incident.”

It is the second time in less than two years that a McColl's store in the town has been targeted.

A raid was carried out at the retailer's shop in Washington Crescent, in December 2014, when a man described as wearing a type of balaclava stormed the premises with a large, bladed knife, and made off with cigarettes.

Anyone with information regarding the incident on Saturday is urged to contact either DC 2102 Sunil Weerasinghe, DS 994 Graham Low from Durham Constabulary CID, or the local Neighbourhood Policing Team on 101.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 08000 555111.