Two men wearing balaclavas demanded cash from a male worker at the Savile Road Service Station before one threatened him with a knife and he was punched in the face at about 2.15am on Friday.

The employee – who had only minor injuries – handed over a quantity of money before the pair fled the premises.

They jumped into a car waiting on the station forecourt, driven by a third man.

Police are investigating whether the car was the same 4x4 found burned out on Gallow’s Hill, Townville, at 2.23am that day and have urged witnesses to come forward.

The thief who punched the attendant is described as stocky, about 5ft 8ins tall, and wore a brown balaclava and blue trousers.

The second – who carried the knife – is described as skinny, about 5ft 6ins to 6ft tall, wearing dark clothing with white stripes down the legs and a black balaclava.

Witnesses or anyone with information about the robbery should call Wakefield CID on 0845 606 6606 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.