Police are hunting for a man who robbed a Royston bookmakers after jumping over the counter while wearing a balaclava.

The robbery took place at Betfred in Melbourn Street at around 6.30pm onn Monday, December 18.

The man – who was wearing a black balaclava and was in possession of a makeshift weapon – is said to have jumped over the counter at the bookmakers and stole cash, before making off.

He is described as white, of medium to stocky build and was wearing a black long sleeve top with a collar, a checked shirt, black gloves, black jeans and brown lace-up shoes.

Dt Con Georgie Peggie from the North Herts Local Crime Unit said: “Thankfully no one was hurt during the incident. I am appealing for anyone who may have seen a man matching this description to please get in touch.

“Any information, no matter how seemingly insignificant, could assist our investigation.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact North Herts Local Crime Unit via the non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference G4/17/1228. You can also report information online at herts.police.uk/Report.

Alternatively, you can contact the independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through their anonymous online form at crimestoppers-uk.org.