Detectives have released CCTV footage in a bid to identify two men after a member of staff was repeatedly stabbed in a Twickenham shop.

Police were called at 22:03hrs on Saturday, 23 December 2017, to reports of a stabbing at an off-licence in High Street, Whitton.

Officers and the London Ambulance Service attended and found a man, aged in his 40s, suffering from stab injuries. He was taken to a west London hospital. He has since been discharged and is recovering from his injuries.

The victim was working alone in the shop and was behind the counter when two men entered the shop at about 22:00hrs. They had their faces disguised by their hoods.

One suspect walked straight behind the counter and shouted ‘open the till.’ He then repeatedly stabbed the victim, who attempted to fight him off. The second suspect remained in front of the counter but pulled off the victim’s turban during the struggle.

Both suspects ran off in the direction of Percy Road. They did not steal anything.

Suspect 1 is described as a black male, about 5ft 11ins, wearing a dark hooded coat, jeans, black trainers and blue and grey gloves.

Suspect 2 is described as a white male, about 5ft 11ins, wearing a dark blue all-weather jacket, a grey tracksuit, black trainers and orange gloves.

Detective Constable Mike Deans, the investigating officer from Kingston and Richmond CID, said: “This was a vicious attack on a man who was simply just doing his job at his place of work, a place where he should feel safe. The attack has understandably left the victim extremely distressed.

“It is through pure luck that the victim did not receive more serious injuries.

“I would appeal to anyone who recognises the two men in the CCTV to contact police as a matter of urgency so we can bring those responsible for this heinous crime to justice.”

Any witnesses or anyone with information is asked to call Kingston and Richmond CID on 07881 352 381, or 101 quoting Crime Reference 0714972/17 or Tweet @MetCC.

Information can also be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org