A sum of cash was taken.
Gardai are appealing for information following an armed robbery in Westmeath.
The incident occurred in Athlone during the height of Storm Ciara's impact last weekend.
Around quarter-past seven last Sunday evening a hooded man with an object covering half his face entered Centra on Church Street.
He threatened a male staff member with a hammer before leaving with a sum of cash taken from the till.
The man then fled in the direction of Northgate Street, onto St.Francis Terrace towards the Fair Green and was last seen on Grace Park Road.
Gardai believe this was in an attempt to cause confusion surrounding his intended escape route.
During the robbery - he was described as wearing a yellow top, which a member of the public saw him discard as he left.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Athlone Garda Station on 09064 98550.
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