Masked raider snatches cash in betting shop robbery

At around 8.40am this morning police received a report of a robbery at the Betfred bookmakers on The Green in Southwick.Police say the offender went in to the store and threatened staff before making off with a quantity of cash. A spokesman for Northumbria Police said: "Officers remain in the area to carry out inquiries and reassure any concerned members of the public.

"They are also now appealing for help from the public. "They added the male responsible for the robbery was wearing very distinctive clothing.

He is described as white and with a local accent.

He was wearing a balaclava, gloves, a high visibility yellow jacket which was down to his knees and had a hood, dark trousers and dark footwear. Police want to hear from anyone who may have seen this man in what is a very busy area of Sunderland.

A spokesman for Betfred said: "The security of our staff and customers is paramount and we are working with the police on their inquiries."If you saw him, or have any information that may help police, then you should contact Northumbria Police on 101 quoting reference 190 08/05/17 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.