Staff were held at gunpoint in an armed petrol station robbery in west Suffolk, police have said.

Officers were alerted to the incident at 7.15pm on Tuesday shortly after a suspect had walked out of the Shell petrol station in High Street in Newmarket, having stolen cash and cigarettes. 

The suspect, who is believed to be male, entered wearing dark jeans, a light-coloured hooded top with the hood up, as well as a black ski mask with small eye holes.

He was holding a handgun, while he also pulled out a knife from his waistband, before putting a large, army-style, camouflaged rucksack onto the counter and telling a staff member to fill it with cash and cigarettes. 

Cash and cigarettes were placed into the bag before the suspect left the shop. 

The area was searched by officers upon arrival, however, the suspect was not located and no arrests were made by officers.

Detective Inspector Cat Thompson, of Suffolk police, said: "Detectives investigating this serious offence are exploring any forensic, CCTV and other opportunities that may be available.

“I would ask if anyone has any information, or any CCTV or dash-camera footage that could be useful to the investigation, please do get in touch.

“We understand the nature of this robbery will cause concern to residents. Additional uniform patrols have been put in place in the area and residents are welcome to approach officers to ask questions, share their concerns, or ask for crime safety advice.

"Equally, crime safety advice for both members of the public and businesses can be found on our website.”

Officers are appealing for anyone with information to contact the police. 

Anyone who was driving, or has CCTV or doorbell cameras along High Street or in the surrounding area between 6.45pm and 7.45pm on Tuesday should contact the police quoting, crime reference number 37/71656/23.