This is the terrifying moment a shop worker was forced to open a safe at knifepoint by a hooded gang.

CCTV footage released by Sussex Police show a gang of three men forcing two workers into the cash office of the One Stop shop in Northlands Avenue, Haywards Heath.

The first gang member drags the male shop worker into the cash office, threatening him with the blade.

He then forces the shop assistant on to the floor to open the safe and empty it of cash.

The footage then shows two other gang members entering the room with a woman shop assistant.

Appearing increasingly agitated, the first gang member then holds the blade to the throat of the male shop worker while the woman looks on in fear.

A large amount of money was taken in the raid, which happened on March 22 at 7.30pm, by the three men who made their escape through a fire exit.

Detectives investigating the attack are hoping the footage will prompt people to come forward with information.

Detective Sergeant Sian Griffiths, from Haywards Heath CID, said: “This was a savage attack and has left the staff involved traumatised as a result of the incident.

“We are appealing for any information that may assist in capturing these callous offenders.”

The three men were white and in their late teens to early 20s.

One was large, one was thin and the other was of average build.

The larger man was wearing grey tracksuit bottoms, a black hooded top, black balaclava and black and white trainers.

The thin man was wearing blue jeans, a black top with a white logo on the left breast and on the back and black trainers.

The third raider was wearing black tracksuit bottoms with white stripes, a black hooded Air Max top and black trainers.

Anyone who saw the incident or who may have further information should call DS Griffiths on 0845 6070999 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.