A SHOP worker was grabbed by a knifeman during a robbery in Bradford and was forced to open the till for the offender.

The criminal escaped with a small quantity of cash from the shop, in Fern Street, at about 4.25 pm yesterday.

Police said the victim was confronted by the robber after he entered the shop and demanded he hand over money.

The assistant refused, but the offender then grabbed him and produced a knife, forcing the victim to open the till so he could steal cash from the drawer.

According to police, a small quantity of cash was taken. The victim was shaken by the ordeal, but was unharmed.

The suspect is described as white, believed to be aged in his 30s, about 6ft tall and of large build.

He was wearing a blue jacket, blue jeans and a cap at the time of the offence.

Det Insp Ryan Bragg, of Bradford District CID, said: "We believe the suspect walked out of the shop towards Sticker Lane, where he was seen to get into a dark car which appeared to have been waiting for him."

Anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the Fern Street or Sticker Lane area in the time leading up to or, shortly after this incident is asked to contact DC 5005 Ditta on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.