Police have released these CCTV pictures of the two hooded men who threatened a mother and baby at knife point during a shop raid.

They stole cash and snatched cigarettes and alcohol from Key Stores in Ark Lane, Deal.

It is believed they drove away in a black N-reg Fiat Cinquecento and police are appealing for witnesses.

Shop owner Shangar Thiyagarajah, 35, was with his wife, six-month-old daughter and a friend preparing for the 10pm closing time. He said: "They came in suddenly and shouted at us to open the till. They both had knives with seven to eight-inch blades, and we could only see their eyes."

The two raiders pushed the owner across the store and one hit his friend with the blunt end of the knife.

Mr Thiyagarajah said he gave the men the till drawer and they filled sacks with cigarettes and alcohol. He said he wanted to avoid anyone being seriously injured and was thinking of the safety of the baby.

"It was all over very fast and after they left I saw someone waiting on the corner with a black car."

Mr Thiyagarajah, who has been at Key Stores for nine months, paid tribute to the kindness shown to his family from his customers since the raid on Monday, March 24.

Det Sgt Mick Jones said: "These offenders were determined and ruthlessly threatened the owner’s wife while she was holding her baby."

Anyone who can help the police with their inquiries is asked to contact South Kent Police on 01303 289180 or call Crimestoppers Hotline on 0800 555111.