A DEFIANT armed robbery victim today vowed he would not be scared off from continuing to work at his job despite his terrifying ordeal.The 27-year-old cashier at the Total garage in Melton Road, Melton, said it was important to carry on life as normal after he was confronted by an intruder carrying a handgun.

A DEFIANT armed robbery victim today vowed he would not be scared off from continuing to work at his job despite his terrifying ordeal.

The 27-year-old cashier at the Total garage in Melton Road, Melton, said it was important to carry on life as normal after he was confronted by an intruder carrying a handgun.

He spoke as police hunted the balaclava-clad robber who burst into the petrol station and seized £350 in notes just before 8pm on Friday.

Joe, a part-time employee worker who did not want to be identified fully, was already back at work on Saturday morning.

He said: “I was petrified. It was really scary when the man was in the shop.

“But I am so glad it was not one of my colleagues who was here.

“Returning to work shows he hasn't won - don't let them get you down.”

Police sniffer dogs and crime scene officers looking for footprints visited the station on Friday after the robbery and officers from CID returned over the weekend.

Detectives also took footage from the garage's closed circuit television system.

Joe, who lives in Woodbridge, said the robber lifted up his jumper to show a gun, believed to be a silver revolver with a wooden handle, in his waistband.

He said he handed over the money and the robber said: “Is that all of it?” They were the only words he said throughout the encounter and he then fled on foot.

The robbery lasted only ten to 15 seconds, Joe said. He then pressed a panic button and police came.

The man is described as white, under 30 years old and between 5ft 11in and 6ft 2in tall. He was wearing jeans and a grey or navy hooded top.

It is believed the last sighting of him was running along Melton Road.

Inspector Bruce Gent, of Suffolk police, said: “Armed response units and dog handlers were sent and an extensive search was made.

“We would appeal to anybody who was in the area at the time or who say anyone acting suspiciously to contact Suffolk police on 01473 613500.”

Did you see the robber making his getaway? Call The Evening Star newsdesk on 01473 324788 or e-mail starnews@eveningstar.co.uk