Police are appealing for public assistance following an attempted armed robbery in Warrawong.

About 9.40pm (Thursday 22 February 2018), police have been told a man – armed with an imitation firearm – entered a service station on King Street, Warrawong.

He approached the counter and threatened the 59-year-old male employee demanding cash.

The employee armed himself with a metal pole and the offender left the store.

No one was injured during the incident.

Officers attached to Lake Illawarra Police District, with the assistance of the Dog Unit, commenced a search of the area; however, were unsuccessful.

As investigations continue, police would like to speak to a man described as being of Caucasian appearance, between 25-30 years of age, about 175cm tall, of slim build with blue eyes.

The man was last seen wearing a dark blue rain jacket, dark blue jeans and black sneakers.