A postmaster has been recovering from shock after he was hit around the head with a gun by armed robbers who burst into his shop.

The man was taking money out of the safe at KK News and Post Office in Prince Avenue, Westcliff, when the raiders ran into the shop.

He was confronted by a man who dashed behind the counter and threatened him before striking him on the side of his head with a small handgun.

The robber then loaded a "substantial amount" of money into a bag before fleeing on foot from the shop with another man, thought to be an accomplice.

Detectives are appealing for anyone who may have seen the men who struck just as the post office was opening.

It is thought they may have run down an alleyway next to the shop into Mayfield Avenue.

They were last seen in Parkstone Drive and police are hoping people on their way to work in nearby offices may have spotted the men.

The postmaster and his wife, who was working behind the newsagent counter, were both extremely distressed.

The man, in his late 20s, suffered bruising to his head but did not require hospital treatment.

There were no customers in the shop at the time of the robbery at about 9am on Thursday.

Anyone who saw anything or may know the men is urged to call Det Sgt Brian Cook at Southend CID on 01702 431212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

Robbed - KK News, where the armed raiders struck on Thursday

By Sarah Hutley

Reporter's e-mail: sarah.hutley@notes.newsquest.co.uk

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