A man wearing a surgical mask has allegedly robbed an East Belfast filling station while armed with a hammer.

Police are appealing for information following the reported incident on the Upper Newtownards Road this afternoon.

It is understood he fled in the direction on the Ulster Hospital with money from the till.

Detective Sergeant Arnott said: "It was reported, just after 1pm, that a man had entered the shop, wearing a surgical mask and armed with a hammer. He demanded the contents of the till and subsequently made off, with a sum of money, on foot in the direction of the Ulster Hospital.

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"While no one was physically harmed, this has understandably been a distressing experience for the members of staff.

"I am appealing to anyone with information or who noticed any suspicious activity to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 944 of 02/06/20. We're especially keen to hear from anyone who may have captured dash cam footage of the man leaving the shop or forecourt."

Any information can be reported online via  www.psni.police.uk/makeareport or provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.