POLICE have praised an "extremely brave" shop attendant who foiled a robbery at the Bishopdown Farm One Stop yesterday morning. 

The incident happened just before 7am when the shop's manager, who was just about to start work, was grabbed from behind by a man who demanded access inside.

A violent struggle broke out and the woman, aged in her 40s, managed to break away. The suspect then fled in the direction of St Clement’s Road.

It has left the victim was left very shaken with cuts and bruises.

Detective Sergeant Nigel Porter, Salisbury CID said: "This woman was extremely brave and fought this man as hard as she could.

"I know she was very shaken but due to her bravery and determination she was able to fight him off and refuse to meet his demands.

"The man is described as 30 to 40 years old, he was very heavy set and wearing a black hooded coat, and trousers.

"We believe that he may have also been seen earlier that morning dressed all in black and wearing a black motorcycle helmet. We have a sighting of a man meeting this description outside the One Stop Shop at 0530hrs and later at 0630hrs in Manning Close.

"We would like to hear from anyone who may have seen this man.

"In addition, we would like to trace the driver of a Silver Renault who drove past the incident as the victim tried to wave at the car to stop. They may have information that would help our investigation and we would very much like to hear from the owner of that vehicle."

No arrests have been made and enquiries continue.

The One Stop store was shut throughout the morning as Police forensics teams investigated.

Detectives would like to hear from anyone who may have seen or heard anything between 6.30 and 7am or who may have information as to who this man is.

If you have information that would assist this investigation call 101 and ask to speak with Salisbury's Priority Crime Team or alternatively if you wish to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800555111.