Police are appealing for information and witnesses after an armed robbery at a hairdressers in Sydenham.

Officers were called to Charisma Gents Hairdresser on Sydenham Road, at about 6.10pm on Wednesday, January 3, following reports of an armed robbery.

Staff said a male suspect entered the premises and demanded they open the till.

He then allegedly showed them a 12-inch knife and threatened to harm staff unless the till was opened.

The suspect reportedly then ran off with takings down Sydenham Road towards Lloyds Bank.

The suspect is described as a black male, about 19 to 21 years of age, skinny build, 6ft 2ins tall, with his hair brushed straight back.

No arrests have been made and enquiries - including the recovery of local CCTV footage - are ongoing.

DC Clare O’Brien from Lewisham CID said: “This was a terrifying robbery with a threat to kill made and backed up by the suspect producing a large knife.

“I’m pleased no one was injured but this suspect needs to be apprehended before he does this again.

“If you were in the area at the time and saw anything suspicious, I would urge you to get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Lewisham CID on 07393 006 959.

To give information anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

You can also tweet @MetCC.