A BETTING shop is offering a reward for help to track a knife-wielding robbery who made off with thousands of pounds.

The cash was taken during the robbery at Jennings Bet, in Pier Avenue, Clacton, on Sunday.

Police have released CCTV images of a man they want to speak to following the robbery, which saw a member of staff threatened with a knife before making off with a four-figure-sum.

Peter Jowett, head of compliance and licensing at Jennings Bet, said: “Having operated in Clacton for 20 years, this is the first incident of this nature we have experienced.

“Thankfully our employee is unhurt physically and has been provided as much time off away from the business as necessary while receiving emotional support.

“So far he appears to be dealing with the incident well.

“As with any criminal offence committed against either our business and our employees we take the matter most seriously and have been assisting the police with their inquiries within minutes of the crime taking place and will continue to do so.

“We are confident with the CCTV images provided with the assistance of businesses, customers and the general public aiding the police, the culprit will be identified and apprehended.

“In addition, in conjunction with the Association of British Bookmakers there will be a reward available for the successful prosecution of the culprit.”

The raid happened at around 6.20pm on Sunday.

A member of staff was grabbed and threatened with what is believed to be a knife before the money was taken.

The raider made off along Pier Avenue and Marine Parade West in the direction of Agate Road.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Det Con Dave Brooks at Clacton CID on 101, quoting incident 836 of 14/05.