A COUNCILLOR has described an knifepoint robbery on a shop in Barrowford as ‘terribly disturbing’.

Police have released more information about the incident which happened at Maguires Off Licence in Gisburn Road on Wednesday at 7.15pm.

The masked robber entered the premises and threatened the lone female shopkeeper with a large knife or sword.

He demanded she hand over money from the till but the worker refused.

The offender then fled empty-handed down Lee Street and out of sight.

Coun Linda Margaret Crossley, who represents Barrowford, said: “People do seem to see Barrowford as an easy target because it’s quite an affluent area.

“It’s terribly disturbing that even small shops and businesses in our village are now being attacked like this.

“Women working by themselves at the moment must feel slightly unnerved by the incident.

“This shopkeeper was very brave to see off the robber, especially as he was carrying a blade.

“I wouldn’t recommend people try to tackle robbers physically, even though it’s a natural instinct to try to protect what’s rightfully yours.

“I think some people think they can commit crimes and get away with it.

“I can’t see what more the police can do, with the strain the force is being put under by the cuts.

“They are extremely over-stretched.”

The robber was described as white, wearing a hooded top and scarf covering his face.

A Lancashire Police spokeswoman said: “Initially it was thought that there were two offenders, but it is now believed to be just the one offender.

“Anybody with any information is asked to call police on 101, or they can provide detail;s to Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”