A GUNMAN who held up a Woolwich post office was sent packing by a bold mum.

Flying Squad officers are interested in finding the man who pushed what he claimed was a loaded weapon into the woman's back and threatened to shoot her unless the cashier emptied the tills.

The man's plan was scuppered when the woman, whose young child was playing on the floor, suggested the gun was not real.

The cashier hit the panic button behind the counter and the man fled from the building in Hill Reach at around 4.50pm on Sunday, October 25.

Police describe the man as white, slim, and about 5ft 6in tall with dark hair. He was wearing sunglasses and is believed to be about 25 years of age.

Anyone with information should call the Flying Squad at Tower Bridge on 0207 4076319.