A man armed with a knife has attempted to rob a shop in Basildon.

The man entered Kast Convenience Store in Pendle Drive shortly after 7.50pm yesterday and demanded money from a staff member.

The victim activated a panic alarm and the robber left empty-handed.

He was described as white, about 6ft tall, and wore a white hooded Nike top and a balaclava. He was seen leaving on foot towards Whitmore Way.

Police want to speak to anyone who saw the man or has any CCTV footage.

Contact Basildon CID on 101 quoting reference 42/138943/18.

Alternatively, contact the Crimestoppers charity 100 per cent anonymously on 0800 555 111 or use the anonymous online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org