INVESTIGATIONS are under way in Leftwich after a shop worker was left bound and gagged following an early morning robbery.

The assistant manager of Martins newsagent, on Clifton Drive, was bundled into a back office after turning off the alarm and opening the store shortly after 5am on Thursday.

He was then bound and gagged by the male attacker. The victim also had something pushed into his back before the robber demanded the store's safe was opened.

When the safe was opened, the attacker removed an undisclosed sum of money and placed it in a holdall.

An unknown quantity of cigarettes was also taken before the attacker escaped from the store. The victim heard a car engine starting outside soon afterwards.

A police spokesman confirmed they received reports of a robbery between 5am and 5.03am on Thursday and they were currently interviewing the victim and making enquiries as to what had been taken. Forensic investigations were also carried out at the scene.

No description of the assailant had been issued by the time the Guardian went to press but neighbouring shopkeepers are hopeful the intruder will be found and punished.

Apple Blossom Florist owner Debbie Berry said: "I'm sure the police will do everything they can to catch the culprit and get justice for the young man involved. It's just lucky that he is physically ok."

And Debbie said the incident has shocked the community. She added: "I am Leftwich born and bred and know everyone around here but it does concern you a little when things like this happen.

"I have a lot of regular customers and they are worried by what has happened but unfortunately there is not much you can do these days. There are cameras at the shops but really this could have happened anywhere.

"There is not a great deal you can do to prevent it."

Anyone with any information should call 0845 458 0000 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.