POLICE are appealing for information after a four-figure sum of money was stolen and a staff member sustained a "serious head injury" at a Post Office in Galashiels.

The incident took place between 7.30am and 7.45am this morning (Sunday, February 12) at the Post Office in Balmoral Place.

In a statement, Police Scotland have said that a man, armed with a weapon (not a firearm), threatened and then assaulted a 33-year-old male member of staff within the Post Office, and stole a four-figure sum of money and a quantity of cigarettes.

A 61-year-old male customer who came into the shop as the man was being attacked, intervened. However, the suspect managed to get away but not before stealing his wallet and mobile phone.

The suspect is described as white, in his early 20s, wearing black trousers, a black top, light pink trainers and a black scarf covering his face. He was also carrying a black backpack which may have had pink markings thereon.

Detective Constable Andrew Hope, Borders CID, said: “This was a shocking attack. It was vicious and the member of staff sustained a serious head injury during the attack. He was taken by ambulance to the Borders General Hospital where he was treated and has since been released.

“The suspect had no thought for the staff member or the customer who thankfully was not injured in the incident.

“The Post Office is a busy place, as is Gala Park where the suspect made off towards, so I would appeal to anyone who saw the attack and who hasn’t already spoken to police, or anyone who can assist officers with their enquiries to contact Scottish Borders CID via 101 or alternatively, Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where details can be given in confidence.”