An attempted robbery in Witham has left police appealing for information.

Yesterday afternoon at 3.50pm a man entered Ladbrokes betting shop, Newland Street, Witham.

He handed a note to the cashier demanding money.

When no money was handed over he left the shop empty handed.

He is believed to have headed in the direction of Lockram Lane.

The suspect is described as 5ft 8ins tall, slim with a goatee beard.

He was wearing a black tracksuit with a hooded top and a dark woolly hat.

The area surrounding Ladbrokes was searched and the police helicopter was also used in the search.

No one has yet been arrested.

Anyone with information call Braintree CID on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.