An armed robber held a gun to a musician's head and forced him to hand over his gear as he travelled home from a gig.

Police today released CCTV footage of the robbery, which happened in Ferndale Road, South Norwood.

The victim, a 41-year-old man, had been performing with his band in Tottenham Court Road earlier on Thursday, May 26.

After buying cigarettes at an off-licence on the way home just after midnight he turned into Ferndale Road, where he was approached from behind by a man armed with a black handgun.

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The gunman pointed the weapon at the victim's head and ordered him walk down an alleyway, where he forced him to hand over his musical equipment and a black rucksack containing his wallet, mobile phone and gym kit.

The robber then told the victim to wait in the alleyway for 20 seconds.

When the victim emerged from the alley he saw a car driving down Ferndale Road but no sign of the man who robbed him.

He went home and called the police. 

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The supect was seen filling up his car at a petrol station minutes before the robbery

The CCTV footage, which was broadcast on the BBC programme Crimewatch on Monday last week, captures the robbery itself as well as the the suspect filling up his vehicle at a nearby petrol station about 15 minutes before the robbery.

Police have urged anyone who recognises the man or his car to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.