A MOTHER has spoken of the “terrifying” moment a masked robber pulled a gun on her as she opened up the family newsagents.

Sultana Majid-Islam, 42, was embarking on a regular routine when she arrived to open M&S Confectioners, in London Road, Rayleigh at about 6am on Sunday.

But it soon turned into a day she’ll never forget.

The mum-of-one said: “When I got there it was still dark and very quiet. Then these two guys came in it was all very casual. One was really tall and the other was average height - maybe 5ft 7ins.

“The shorter one mumbled something as I turned around to greet them. I was trying to work out what was wrong with their faces and then realised they were wearing masks. That’s when the short one pulled up his top and pulled out a gun.”

The taller man had an axe-like weapon which he also brandished at Mrs Majid-Islam.

She continued: “The gunman said something like ‘give me your money’ but I just froze and looked at him. That’s when he grabbed me by the arm and ushered me to the till. He told me to go behind the counter and hand over the money and then added something like ‘I’m a desperate man’.

“All the time, I was trying to think what to do. I could see the door was open and considered running, but it was still early and no where would’ve been open.”

During the confrontation, one of the robbers smashed Mrs Majid-Islam’s phone on the floor.

She added: “I told them it was too early and we didn’t have cash in the shop and as I was saying this, I was walking closer to the counter and managed to push the panic alarm under the till.

“As soon as they heard it, they ran off. I grabbed the shop phone and called 999. Within five minutes, armed police were on scene.

“It was very terrifying, especially for a woman. They could’ve hurt me in so many ways, but thankfully I’m OK. I am hopeful they will get caught.

“It’s just sad because we’re closing the shop in three weeks anyway so this is a sad way for the shop’s story to end.”

If you have information contact Det Con Andy Coles at Southend CID on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.