“It’s a real shock to our community,” Mayor Freshney said.

“This sort of thing doesn’t happen too often, but it’s nothing to panic over.

“It was regrettable but it was a one-off and it’s unlikely to happen again as history would confirm.”

Mayor Freshney has asked anyone with information to alert police or if anyone witnesses or hears anything unusual to talk to police or call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. 

EARLIER: 11.45am – Reporter Leah McBey has been on the ground in Latrobe speaking with the public this morning. 

The people of Latrobe have said they are surprised and in shock that something like this has happened in their town and a lot didn’t know anything had happened in the first place. 

Staff at the Lucas Hotel are remaining silent on the issue but we will be speaking with Latrobe Mayor Peter Freshney shortly. 

EARLIER: Tasmania Police is seeking information following an armed robbery at the Lucas Hotel at Latrobe on Tuesday night. 

At approximately 9:40pm a man, armed with a knife, entered the Lucas Hotel at 46 Gilbert Street, Latrobe and demanded money from a member of staff who was in the process of closing the hotel.

The man was handed an amount of cash before leaving the hotel through a rear door, carrying the money in a Coles shopping bag.

The man has been described as Caucasian, approximately 6 foot tall with a stocky build. He was wearing black clothing.

Detectives from the Devonport Criminal Investigation Branch are currently investigating the incident.

Anyone who may have witnessed the robbery or who has information that might help the investigation is asked to contact Police on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestopperstas.com.au