A shop assistant was shot and seriously wounded as he chased hammer wielding robbers from a cash and carry in Croydon.

The 24-year-old man was blasted in the chest at the Costco cash and carry on Imperial Way, at about 7.45pm.

Police believe the member of staff challenged several robbers who entered the store armed with hammers.

As the member of staff gave chase one robber remained standing at the doorway and he shot the victim as he chased the suspects.

All the men then ran away from the store.

The victim was taken to a south London hospital suffering from a gunshot wound. His condition today is still said to be critical.

Flying squad detectives are appealing for any witnesses or information concerning the shooting.

Officers from the Specialist Crime Directorate are investigating and CCTV is being recovered from the scene.

Detective Superintendent, Bob Cummings said they are appealing for anyone who was in the store at the time to get in touch and for any witnesses in the area.

He said: "We believe there were at least five suspects. We know they were dressed in dark clothing and suspect they ran from the store across Purley Way into some adjacent fields. We don't know if there was a vehicle waiting for them there.

"Purley Way is a major road in south London and at that time of the evening would still have been very busy, especially in that area where there are several large retail premises.

"Were you in the area of Purley Way, between 7pm and 8pm on Thursday, September 17? Did you see or hear anything suspicious?"

So far there have been no arrests.

Anyone with any information is asked to call the Flying Squad on 020 7232 6530 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 to remain anonymous.

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