A ROBBER sprayed a shopkeeper in the face with a canister and then attacked him and a woman worker.

On Sunday, officers were called to an incident at Padiham Stores in Hill Street, Padiham.

At around 4.25pm a man had entered the store demanding cash from the till.

He then threatened a shop worker before spraying a canister in the victim's face.

A spokesperson for the police said: "A man entered the store demanding cash from the till. He threatened a male shop worker before spraying a canister in the victim’s face."

Police were told that the victim and the suspect began to fight, and a female worker at the store attempted to help the victim before being assaulted herself.

It is believed the offender took some cash, cigarettes and a drink before making off from the scene in the direction of Green Street.

Detectives have now launched an investigation into the incident and are appealing for information.

The spokesperson said: "The suspect is described as white, aged 25 to 35-years-old, around 5ft 9in tall, of slim build with short, wavy dark hair. He was wearing a dark grey fleece."

The man and woman both went to Royal Blackburn Hospital for treatment to minor injuries.

Det Con Melissa Chadwick, of Burnley Police, said: “This was a shocking incident where a man and woman have been assaulted during a shop robbery.

“Fortunately both were left with minor injuries but it is vital we find the man responsible as soon as possible.

“If you recognise the man described, or saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area around the time of the offence, please contact police immediately.

“This is a mainly residential area and it was still daylight at the time of the offence. We believe someone must have seen what happened.”

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting log 1097 of October 28.