A newsagents has been robbed at knifepoint for the second time in a year.

At around 12.45pm yesterday (August 16) a balaclava wearing man entered Martin's Newsagents in Pyrles Lane, Loughton brandishing a knife.

He threatened a member of staff before making off with a three figure sum of cash.

The suspect was described as white, of slight to average build and was wearing a balaclava and a blue raincoat, with the hood pulled up.

He had on black gloves, black trousers and black trainers which had a white trim and spoke with what was described as an East London accent.

No arrests have been made.

It is the second time Martin's has been targeted this year.

On February 18 a three figure sum was also stolen by a man armed with a knife.

Detective constable Stephen Baker from Loughton CID said: “The staff member who was threatened with the knife was not physically hurt during the incident although understandably it left him very distressed.

“We are particularly interested in talking to a woman who entered the shop during the robbery, as we think she may have seen the suspect.

"She was with a little girl of around six or seven.

“If this is you, or you have information about the incident, please call us, it could really help our enquiries.”

Call Loughton CID on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.