ARMED robbers wearing balaclavas have stolen cash from a Malvern One Stop store.

Police believe one of the robbers was wielding a knife, or another bladed item, while the other was carrying a hammer.

The incident happened at just after 1.10pm today (17 February) when the man wielding the knife climbed over the counter and stole money from the store’s till.

It is thought the pair escaped on bikes on Pickersleigh Road, Malvern, in the direction of Prospect View and Barnards Green roundabout.

The store manager, who has worked at the shop for four years, said there were two members of staff working when the incident happened.

"We don't want to say anything as we are still very shaken up. It's an ordeal," the manager said.

"It's never happened here before to my knowledge."

Detective Sergeant Stephen Wiggins of West Mercia Police said: "I understand that a robbery of this nature can be alarming but I would like to reassure the Malvern community that officers were quickly on the scene.

"Investigations are underway and we are asking any witnesses to contact us if they have information. If you saw anybody matching the descriptions of the men please call police on 101, quoting incident number 317s of 17 February."

The two men left the scene on a mountain bike and a BMX bike.

The robber carrying the bladed weapon was described as a white male wearing a light grey hooded top, with black stripes down the sleeves, light coloured tracksuit bottoms and dark blue or black trainers.

The other man was described as dressed in a black hooded top with white stripes down the sleeves, tracksuit bottoms coloured light grey or white, and black trainers.

Anyone with information can call 101 quoting incident number 317s of February 17.

Alternatively witnesses can anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

CORRECTION: The police originally reported that the robbery happened at a Co-Op store, they later corrected this and said it occurred at a One Stop store.