He used a sharp object to threaten the 22-year-old staff member at Cowden’s in Shore Street, but fled empty-handed when she challenged him and bravely refused to hand over cash.

Seven police vehicles rushed from Greenock police office to Cowden’s when the alarm was raised at 4pm on Friday.

The shop was cordoned off while investigations continued.

Police have not confirmed what kind of weapon was used by the man, who is believed to be aged between 20 and 30.

A police spokeswoman said they are appealing for witnesses and treating the incident as an assault with intent to rob. No-one was injured. The suspect is described as white, slim, 5ft 6ins to 5ft 8ins, unshaven and with short dark hair.He was wearing a black hooded top with a white emblem on the left of the chest, black gloves, blue jeans and black and white trainers.

Anyone who saw him or knows him is asked to call the police on the non-emergency number 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 free.

This was the second attempted robbery in a month on a Cowden’s shop.

There was another on 16 March at their Lynedoch Street store in Greenock, where the shop worker also refused a demand for money.