Police investigating an armed robbery at Cessnock last week have released a COMFIT of a man who may be able to assist with inquiries.

About 1.30pm on Monday 11 August 2014, a man entered a travel shop on Cooper Street, armed with a handgun.

Police have been told the man threatened a female employee, demanding cash.

The woman handed over cash, before the man assaulted her and fled the scene.

Officers attached to Central Hunter Local Area Command were called and established a crime scene.

The woman was uninjured during the incident.

As they continue to investigate the incident, detectives have now released a COMFIT (computer-generated image) of a man who they believe may be able to assist with inquiries.

He is described as being of Caucasian appearance, aged in his 30s, about 183cm tall, of medium build, with short dark hair, and with colourful tattoos down both arms.

The man with whom police would like to speak was seen wearing a grey t-shirt and black thongs.