A teenager has been released after a woman was shot in the neck during an armed robbery.

A robber repeatedly fired an air pistol while robbing a convenience store called Vetry’s in East Street, Epsom, at 8.45pm on Thursday.

The 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of robbery, but has subsequently been release without further action taken against him.

A Surrey Police spokeswoman said: "We are hopeful for a description and a further update in the coming days."

Raj, 34, whose wife Jenny, 33, was shot in the neck while manning the till that night, said: "The gunman came inside.

"He threw down a bag to tell her to put money inside. She said: ‘OK, I will put money in’. But in the meantime he pushed the till area so it all fell down and started to shoot."

He said the robber, who was masked and wore a long black jacket and gloves, fired about seven or eight times.

He said: "She got two pellets in her neck. It was swelling. She was very shaken and upset. They took her to hospital straight away."

The man stole the till drawer, which was found unopened a short time later.

Detective Inspector Paul Gordon, said: "This was a terrifying ordeal for the victims it and no doubt the experience will stay with them for some time.

"Officers will fully support those caught up in this horrendous crime and will do all they can to bring the person responsible to justice.

"I urge anyone who has information on this incident to contact officers as a matter of urgency, anything you disclose will be treated in the strictest of confidence.

"This incident is likely to frighten other shop owners and businesses in the area."

He urged those concerned about safety and security in their stores to visit the Surrey Police website or contact their local safer neighbourhood team.  

Anyone with information should call Surrey Police on 101, quoting reference 45140009372, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.