A KNIFE wielding robber threatened members of staff at a bookmakers.

The man went into Coral in North Station Road, Colchester, just after noon yesterday and forced members of staff to open the till.

He left with a three-figure sum of cash.

Nobody was hurt.

Police were informed and launched a search - which included the police helicopter - but were unable to trace the man or find the cash. The man was described as being white, just over 6ft tall and wore a navy hooded jumper with a zip down the middle.

His face was covered with a black scarf and he wore dark-coloured jogging bottoms.

He left the scene on foot, with the money in a carrier bag, towards Causton Road.

Gazette:

Fled - police say the man headed towards Causton Road, Colchester 

Police also want to speak to the rider of a dark-coloured quad bike seen driving from Catchpool Road to Cowdray Avenue and then onto Serpentine Walk shortly after the incident.

Anyone in the area with available CCTV, dash cam footage, or who may have seen something suspicious in the area at this time is asked to call Colchester CID on 101.

The crime reference number to quote is 42/11197/19.

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.