A knife-wielding thug made off with medication after an armed robbery at a Saltcoats pharmacy.

The man entered the Gallagher Pharmacy premises on Hamilton Street where he then threatened staff with a knife before stealing a quantity of prescriptions at around 2.25pm on Saturday, October 19. 

The man left the scene on foot in the direction of Vernon Street. Nobody was injured as a result of the incident.

The suspect is described as white, around 5ft 8ins tall, of slim build, and spoke with a local accent. He had light brown hair, a dark coloured scarf covering his face, a dark coloured hooded top, dark coloured tracksuit bottoms and dark coloured trainers.

Officers conducting inquiries into the incident are now appealing for witnesses and anyone who can help the investigation is asked to come forward.

Detective Sergeant Kirsty Thomson of Saltcoats CID said: “This has been a frightening ordeal for the staff members working within the pharmacy who have been left understandably shaken by the incident.

“The man left the area on foot and we are keen to hear from anyone who was in Hamilton Street or the surrounding areas on Saturday afternoon and who saw him, to report this to officers.

“Anyone who recognises the description of the suspect, or has any information that can help identify and trace him, should contact police as soon as possible.”

Those with information should contact Police Scotland on 101 and quote incident number 2334 of 19th October. Alternatively an anonymous report can be made to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.