A Shirley shop assistant screamed for her husband's help when a man held a gun to her head and demanded cash on Friday, November 16.

The 46 year-old first spotted her attacker in the store at 1.15pm and watched as he left the store after admitting he didn't have any money.

He re-entered the Upper Shirley Road store at 1.50pm and held a small black handgun to her head, causing her to call for her husband to come downstairs.

The man left the store empty-handed following unsuccessful attempts to open the till.

He is described as 18, white, 5ft 11 ins, medium build and was wearing a green top and a baseball cap.

Police urge witnesses to call DC Gary Stokes at Tower Bridge on 020 7407 6319.

November 21, 2001 15:00