A MAN from Hayes who robbed a grocery store has been jailed, and police are stepping up their efforts to find his accomplice.

Michael Johnson, from Uxbridge Road, tried to grab money from the till during the raid at Furness Convenience Store in Furness Road, Kensal Green, on April 6 this year. A second man held a gun to a customer's head.

The shopowner intervened during the robbery and fought Johnson off, grabbing his wooly hat and hood in the struggle. Other staff stepped in and the suspects left empty-handed.

Forensic evidence led Flying Squad detectives to Johnson, and he was arrested at an address in Perivale on June 27.

The 28-year-old admitted to attempted robbery and possession of an imitation firearm, and was sentenced to 40 months in jail at Harrow Crown Court on Wednesday last week.

Police haven't traced the second suspect, however, and have released a CCTV image in the hope that someone will recognise him.

Detective Constable Adrian Whitewick, leading the investigation, said: "Michael Johnson has been jailed for his role in the attempted robbery of a convenience store which left staff and a customer fearing for their lives.

"While this brings some degree of closure, it is only half of the job. Today, we are issuing a CCTV image of the man we believe accompanied Johnson during this raid."

If you can help police with their enquiries, call the Flying Squad at Finchley on 020 8358 1752, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.