AN ARMED robber burst into a convenience store and threatened staff in the early hours of this morning.

At around 5.45am a member of staff was in the back office of the Co-operative store in South View Avenue, Caversham, when a man forced his way in brandishing a hammer and threatened him.

The victim, who is in his 20s, was forced to open the safe and sustained a cut to his hand before the thug escaped with cash and scratch cards.

Police are urging witnesses to call them on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.