A WOMAN was threatened at 'gunpoint' during a terrifying early morning incident at a shop in Tarbolton.

A balaclava wearing man approached the woman, who was about to start her shift, and threatened her with what is believed to be a firearm.

The frightening event occurred around 6.45am on Sunday morning at the Spar in Montgomery Street when the 57-year-old shop worker walked around the back of the premises to open a shutter and the man threatened her.

He demanded that she open the door, however the alarm was raised and the suspect made off along Park Road.

He is described as white, 5ft8 to 6ft, of slim build and with a local accent. He was wearing a navy bomber jacket with silver/grey trim, dark trousers and was carrying a small dark coloured sports holdall.

Detective Sergeant Craig Semple from Ayr CID said: “From witnesses spoken to so far we understand that the suspect had been sitting at the bus stop across from the Spar for some time prior to the incident.

“Extensive enquiries are ongoing and in particular I would like to speak to a man and a women who walked passed the suspect at around 6am and appeared to stop and look at him. The man is described as in his early 20s, with dark hair swept to the side and wearing a tartan or checked shirt. The woman is described as having long dark hair and wearing a cream coloured top.

“The suspect was not wearing the balaclava when he was waiting at the bus stop and I would appeal to anyone who noticed him sitting there, or anything at all suspicious, to please get in touch.

“Anyone with information is asked to contact Ayr CID via 101, quoting incident number 1247 of Sunday 2 December. Alternatively you can call CRIMESTOPPERS on 0800 555 111 where details can be given in confidence.”