AN ARMED robber allegedly threatened staff at Beresfield Bowling Club with a knife on Saturday before making off with a sum of cash in a garbage bag.

Just before 1am, a man wearing a balaclava gained access to the club, which had been locked, while seven staff members were processing the tills and moving money into the strong room.

Once inside the club, the offender threatened the employees with a knife and demanded cash be placed in a garbage bag.

The man then ordered the manger to open the main entrance so he could leave.

He was last seen running east towards Allendale Street.

Police were called and the dog unit set up a perimeter but were unable to locate a scent.

The man is described as being of a thin build, 175cm tall and in his early-to-mid 20s.

He was wearing a thick jacket which had fur lining around the hood, long pants, gloves and he had a beanie over his face which had eye holes cut out of it.

Police say they will be reviewing CCTV footage and urge anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers ON 1800 333 000.