Knifepoint robbery terror at newsagent

AN armed robber stole a "substantial" amount of cash from a New Town newsagents after threatening the shop assistant with a knife.

The raider, who was wearing a balaclava, carried out the robbery at Canonmills Newsagents, before making his escape on a bus.

The terrified female shop assistant handed over a three-figure sum, which police officers described as a "substantial amount of cash".

The man, believed to be aged between 20 and 25, then fled the Howard Street shop, removed his mask and ran into Warriston Crescent.

He was then spotted standing at a bus stop next to the Standard Life building at the west side of Tanfield.

It is believed he got on to a bus heading towards the north of the city.

The man is said to be between 5ft 9ins and 6ft, slim build, with short dark and greying hair. He was wearing a black bomber-style jacket and dark trousers.

The female shop assistant was not injured during the raid, which happened at 7.30pm on Saturday, but was left shaken by the ordeal.

Police are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information on the robber to come forward.