DETECTIVES are appealing for information after a report of an armed robbery at commercial premises last night, Saturday, January 5.

The incident happened at Bridewell Drive in Carrickfergus, Co Antrim around 7.20 pm.

It was reported that a male armed with a baseball bat entered a shop and demanded that a member of staff place money and cigarettes into a holdall.

The assailant was challenged by customers who were in the shop at the time and were able to retrieve the holdall from him.

He then made off on foot empty handed.

He is described as being aged in his 50s, of medium build and was wearing a dark coloured balaclava and combat jacket.

Detective Sergeant Robinson is appealing for anyone who witnessed the incident or anyone with any information to contact Detectives on 101, quoting reference 972 05/01/19.

Alternatively, information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 which is 100% anonymous and gives people the power to speak up and stop crime.