DETECTIVES are appealing for witnesses after a robbery at a sandwich shop in Gateshead.

The incident was reported at about 7.30pm last night when a man wearing a dark tracksuit entered the Subway on Trinity Square in the town centre.

He threatened a staff member at the store and demanded they hand over the contents of the till. The offender was then able to flee the area in possession of a large quantity of cash.

Officers were deployed to the scene and carried out a search of the area but were unable to locate the person responsible.

Now detectives are appealing for help from the public to identify the robber.

Detective Inspector Tam Fowler, of our Central CID, said: “This was a very scary incident for staff but thankfully nobody was injured.

“This robbery has happened in the heart of the town centre and we have a number of enquiries underway to identify him.

“We know people would have seen the person responsible prior to the robbery, or when he fled the scene.

“If you saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area of Trinity Square then get in touch with police as you may be able to assist detectives with their investigation.”

The man is described as white, aged in his late 40s, around 5ft10in tall of stocky build, wearing a dark hoody and tracksuit bottoms. His face was covered.

Anyone who has information should call 101 quoting log 868 10/03/19 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555111.