THE National Police Air Service helicopter was deployed after a robbery at a Sandown store.

They were searching for a man believed to have used a pellet gun in a robbery. He left with a quantity of cash.

An Isle of Wight Police spokesperson said: "We are investigating a robbery which took place at Central Stores in Avenue Road, Sandown, last night.

"It was reported that a man entered the store at around 8.30pm and told staff to empty the till.

"The man, who had his face covered, was holding an item described as a pellet gun.

"He then left the store with a quantity of cash."

It was the second time the convenience store had been targeted in a fortnight.

More than £300 in cash and several pouches of tobacco were stolen from the shop on November 19.

The store has now been closed until further notice.

Enquiries are ongoing.

Anyone with information should call 101, quoting 44190427405.

Alternatively you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/