Shop workers have been left extremely distressed after being threatened with a hammer during a robbery.

Two male workers, aged 17 and 22, were working in the RS McColl shop in Kilwinning when a man with a hammer entered.

He demanded money from the pair, threatening to harm them.

The man ran out of the shop, on West Doura Court, with a three figure sum of money.

The suspect is described as white, 5ft 10in, stocky built. He was wearing dark trousers and a black hooded top with a McKenzie logo.

Detective Sergeant Craig Semple said: "I'd like to speak to anyone who may have seen the suspect hanging around the area prior to the robbery taking place or anyone who saw him running out of the shop afterwards."

Anyone with information should contact Saltcoats CID via 101.