A knife-wielding robber stole a till from a petrol station shop, before making a get away with thousands of pounds of cash.

Officers were first alerted to the alarming incident at around 12.45am on Wednesday, having received reports that a man had entered a Tesco Express and was armed with a knife.

The robber was able to escape with a till, which contained a four-figure sum of cash.

This till was found in an alleyway next to the shop containing left over coins.

A police probe has now been launched into the robbery, which took place on London Road, Brentwood.

Detectives would like to talk to the man pictured as part of their enquiries. 

A spokesperson from Essex Police, said: "We believe the suspect, who is around 5’4 and of a slim build, ran off towards Rollason Way.

"We would like to hear from anyone who recognises this person, has information or has dash cam footage.

"Anyone with information is asked to call Brentwood CID on 101 quoting crime reference 42/134754/20 or you can report information online by visiting www.essex.police.uk.

"Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."