A hooded man tried to rob a betting shop in Whitstable after demanding a staff member put money in a bag.

It happened at around 11.10am on Saturday at William Hill in Tankerton Road.

Police say the offender left empty-handed when a woman behind the counter raised the alarm.

He was seen getting on a bike and cycling off towards the seafront.

The would-be thief is described as about about 5ft 9ins tall and slimly built. He was wearing a dark jacket with the hood up, purple gloves and his face was partially covered with a red snood type piece of material. He was carrying an orange Sainsbury's shopping bag.

Det Insp Dave Cox said: "We would like to hear from anyone who witnessed the attempted robbery or who saw anyone matching the description of the offender in the area either on Saturday or on the days leading up to it."

Anyone with information should call police on 01843 222289 or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 quoting crime reference number ZY/26989/18.