POLICE investigating an attempted armed robbery in Sunderland have released a picture of a man they would like to trace.

Shortly before 6.30am on Thursday, September 27, police were called to Londis, in Lincoln Avenue, following a report of an attempted robbery.

A man entered the shop wearing all black and with his face covered before he threatened staff with a knife.

Staff refused to hand him any money and chased him from the store, and the offender then fled in the direction of Westgate Avenue.

Nobody was injured during the incident but a member of staff was very shaken up.

An investigation is now underway as police try to identify the individual, who is described as white, aged in his 20s and wearing all black.

As part of ongoing enquiries, police have now released the image of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the investigation.

He was known to have been in the area at the time and could assist detectives with their enquiries.

Police have also studied CCTV footage and are keen to speak to the driver of a dark-coloured vehicle which drove down Lincoln Avenue shortly after the robbery.

The driver is believed to have had a brief exchange of words with the suspect and could have key information that could help police with the investigation.

Anyone with information should contact Northumbria Police on 101 quoting log 160270918.