SECURITY measures at a York off-licence are to be reviewed after it was raided by a masked man brandishing a meat cleaver.

Bosses at Wine Cellar said the safety and security of workers was a paramount concern for the company after a shocked staff member at the Hull Road store, in York, was confronted by a man wearing a blue boiler suit and carrying a large knife on Monday evening.

A spokesperson for Wine Cellar Limited said the company was "very distressed by the incident" - the second in recent weeks.

The Evening Press reported, on Wednesday, that the man was seen escaping in a small white van with black and red writing on the side that was parked in nearby Thief Lane. He drove away towards the city centre.

The spokesperson said: "The safety and security of our staff is a paramount concern for Wine Cellar. We were very distressed by the incident on Monday night and have taken immediate steps to provide support to those members of staff involved.

"This is the second incident to have occurred at the store in recent weeks and as a result plans are in place to review security measures, including the addition of shutters to prevent future break-ins.

"Security and the personal safety of staff is a key focus for our business. Our stores are designed with this in mind and all our staff receive ongoing training and advice on how to deal with a wide range of possible situations."

The man, described as having a bald or shaven head, about 6ft tall with his face covered by a scarf, entered the shop at about 7.20pm.

He threatened a young member of staff, thought to be in her 20s, and she handed over a small amount of cash. The attacker then left the store - no struggle took place.

Anyone with information is asked to phone Det Sgt Alan Rowan, who is leading the inquiry, on 0845 60 60 247.

Updated: 09:38 Saturday, April 23, 2005