CCTV of a suspect has been released after a raider armed with a meat cleaver leapt over the counter at an East Dorset bookmakers on Wednesday night.

As reported, the man, who had blue fabric stretched over his face, threatened staff at Ladbrokes in Station Road, West Moors, before escaping with cash.

The incident happened shortly before 8pm.

Police have now released an image of their suspect as part of their bid to hunt him down.

Detective Constable Garry Weston, of Bournemouth CID, said they are searching for a man who is around five feet ten inches tall and of stocky build. He was also wearing a black hooded top, dark trousers and red gloves.

“I appreciate his face is covered but I am hoping that someone might be able to recognise him from his build, profile and clothing he is wearing," DC Weston said.

“As well as detectives investigating the incident, local officers from the neighbourhood policing team have been carrying out reassurance visits in the area and at other bookmakers in East Dorset.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55190008387.