A man wearing a balaclava allegedly stole more than £400 from a Greggs store after threatening three members of staff with a knife. 

Police were called to Greggs at Harwich Gateway Retail Park at about 5am on Tuesday. 

Within half an hour, officers identified a suspected and arrested him. 

The stolen money was also recovered by police.

A 44-year-old man remains in custody after being arrested on suspicion of robbery, Essex Police has confirmed.

Detective Chief Inspector Rob Huddleston, of Essex Police, said: “This was some extremely quick work from our officers, who worked efficiently to carry out multiple enquiries, including reviewing CCTV in order to make this arrest.

“I’d like to thank the victims for their cooperation today despite being extremely shaken up.

“If anyone was in the area and may have witnessed anything which could assist with this investigation, please get in contact with us.”

Anyone with any information is being asked to contact Essex Police quoting the crime reference number 105 of May 9.