A man escaped with a four-figure sum of cash after an armed robbery in Kilmarnock last night.
The shocking incident happened around 9.30pm at the town's Scotmid store on McPhail Drive.
Police say the man entered the venue and threatened a female member of staff with a weapon before demanding money.
He then made off towards MacAndrew Gardens with an as yet unspecified amount of cash.
The staff member was not injured during the armed robbery but has been left "badly shaken" as a result of what took place.
Officers are today appealing for witnesses to come forward while CCTV footage is scoured and extra patrols are deployed in the area to reassure the public.
The suspect is described as around 5ft 10in tall and of slim build.
He was wearing a dark-coloured trapper-style hat, sunglasses, a navy blue jacket, grey ripped jeans and white trainers. He was also wearing gloves that were dark-coloured on the palms and lighter coloured on the outside.
Detective Sergeant Sarah Holland of Kilmarnock police station said: “The 42-year-old member of staff was uninjured but she is badly shaken as a result of this robbery.
“Enquiries are ongoing and officers have been speaking to people in the area, gathering and studying CCTV images from in and around McPhail Drive, to establish more information on the man responsible for this robbery.
“I would urge anyone in the local community who saw anyone acting suspiciously on Tuesday evening, or who recognises his description, to contact officers as soon as possible.
“Additional patrols are in place to provide public reassurance and anyone with any concerns or information can speak to officers.”
Information on the robbery should be passed to police through 101, quoting reference number 3533 of Tuesday, 21 June.
Alternatively, Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111 and details given anonymously.
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