A PETROL station assistant was left badly shaken after two youths armed with a handgun forced him into a back room and stole cash and telephone cards.

Police are now seeking witnesses to the robbery at the Esso service station on the busy Birmingham Road through Hopwood at 7.30pm last Tuesday.

The assistant, although shaken, was not physically harmed during the terrifying robbery.

The raiders were both black and aged between 17-19.

One was about 5ft 8ins tall and was wearing a dark blue top with a hood and dark blue trousers or jeans.

The second youth was about 5ft 9ins tall and was dressed similarly.

Both hid their faces under dark blue scarves during the raid.

Dc Andy Southall, of Redditch police, said: "This was a frightening experience for the cashier and it took place on a busy main road between Birmingham and Redditch.

"Police are aware there were people moving about at the time and are appealing to anybody who saw the incident or the two men in the area to call us."

Sgt Andy Chinn said: "We're not sure whether there was anyone on the forecourt at the time.

"The assistant quite sensibly did what he was told and went into the back of the shop."

It is unclear if the robbers made off on foot or in a car.

Anyone with information can call 584888 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.