Robbers fled empty-handed from a petrol station after attacking a staff member with a baseball bat.

Two men tried to rob the Murco service station, London Road, Postcombe, near Chinnor, shortly before 8pm on Tuesday.

They were both about 5ft 10in tall, wearing dark clothing and black balaclavas with slit holes for the eyes. Both men were carrying baseball bats.

They demanded cash and when the employee refused, one of the them struck him with a bat.

They then ran for about 80 yards along the A40, in the direction of Thame, before getting in a car and driving off.

The man behind the counter suffered cuts to the head and was taken to the John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, where he was treated for minor injuries.

There were no customers in the service station at the time.

Anyone who may have information about the offence is urged to call Det Con Andy Bland at Henley CID on 01491 843831 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.