A liquor store worker was cut on the arm by a scissors-wielding robber on Thursday afternoon.

Police were called to the incident at Carousel Liquors, Front Street, Hamilton at 4.30 p.m. The victim, a 53-year-old from Warwick. told officers a man came into the store around 4 p.m and asked for some matches. The worker said he was talking to another person in the store at the time, and refused the man?s request. He left, but returned a short time later when no customers were present, wearing a full face helmet.

The suspect went behind the counter and attempted to grab two cartons of cigarettes, with a scuffle ensuing between him and the store clerk.

?During the struggle the suspect managed to grab a pair of scissors that were on the counter and used them to cut the victim?s arm. At that point a customer entered the store and saw the commotion, startling the suspect, who then made good his escape on foot heading west on Front Street before turning on to King Street,? said a Police spokesman.

Officers searched the area but were unable to locate the assailant. He is described as wearing baggy blue jeans, blue boxer shorts, a white top and a full face helmet. The victim indicated that he would make his own way to the hospital for treatment of the cut to his arm. The suspect appears to have left the store empty handed.

Police are appealing for witnesses to contact Hamilton Criminal Investigation Unit on 295-0011.