Police have charged a 15-year-old youth with Aggravated Armed Robbery in relation to an incident at Woolworths Claremont last night.

At 10.20pm the youth approached the loading area at the rear of the store, where staff members were conducting night fill. The youth struck a staff member with a small axe and threatened a second staff member. The youth then pulled a trolley containing various drinks out of the loading bay and stole several cartons from it before leaving the area, damaging a parked vehicle on his way.

The youth was located a short time later and arrested without incident. The stolen drinks were also located and recovered. He was later charged with Aggravated Armed Robbery and detained for court.

The injured staff member was taken by ambulance to the Royal Hobart Hospital where he was treated for non-life threatening injuries.

Two other youths were also present however did not enter the store and ran away during the incident.

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or may have any information is urged to contact Tasmania Police on 131 444 or report anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestoppers.com.au.