A knife-wielding robber told a terrified shopkeeper he would stab her if she didn't hand over cash and cigarettes during a raid on a Bradford newsagent.

Two men walked into M and S Newsagent in Thornton Road, Thornton, and one pointed a knife at the female shop assistant while the other kept watch in the shop doorway, police said.

The man with the knife threatened to stab the woman before filling a bag with cigarettes from behind the counter and money from the till.

Police are appealing for an early morning shopper, who went into the shop to buy a newspaper while the robbery was happening, to come forward.

The man walked into the shop at 6.30am on Monday but fled when he realised a robbery was taking place.

The two robbers then walked out of the shop and down Thornton Road towards Girlington.

Police described the man with the knife as in his early 20s, with short, dark, unstyled hair. He had discoloured teeth, was unshaved and possible had a moustache, while he was wearing a three quarter length black jacket and dark trousers. Police believe he is white.

No description has been given of the lookout.

Det Insp Noel Devine of Bradford North CID said: "This was obviously a planned attack on the premises by people who were desperate for money.

"The woman was left shocked and upset."

If you were the person who came into the shop while the raid was happening, or have any other information, contact Bradford North CID on (01274) 376275.