AN ARMED robber tried to break into a jewellers by smashing the window with a hammer.

They struck at Andrews jewellers in Southchurch Road, Southend, at about 4.25pm on Wednesday.

Quick-thinking staff lowered the shutters and the man ran off empty handed.

The man was wearing a dark coloured hooded jacket, jeans, white trainers and had his face covered.

Police want to speak to the driver of a red car who may have seen the crook.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Det Con Sam Boyd at Southend police station on 101 or give information anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.