A MANHUNT has been launched following an armed robbery in Alloa this afternoon.

A gunman entered Orlandi's on Sunnyside Court at around 11.30am today, demanding money from a terrified staff member.

Police say the suspect was a young man, with a local accent, carrying what was described as a "small black handgun".

He made off with a small quantity of money from the till.

Officers have now issued an appeal for information while they attempt to trace the man.

Detective Inspector Frank Travers, from Forth Valley CID, said: "This was a very frightening ordeal for the shopkeeper and, thankfully, she was not injured during the robbery.

"We are treating this incident with the utmost seriousness and local officers and divisional CID are being supported by specialist resources as part of this inquiry.

"Anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the Sunnyside Court area prior to 11.30am on Monday morning, or who can help us identify the male responsible, should contact police immediately."

Inquiries are ongoing to identify the suspect and anyone who recognises him is asked to come forward.

He is described as white, in his twenties with a very thin build and wearing a grey hooded top with the hood up. The male also spoke with a local accent.

Those with information can contact Police Scotland via 101 and quote incident number 1416 of the August 26.

Alternatively, an anonymous report can be made to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.