THE hunt is on for a balaclava-clad knife-carrying man who entered a Southampton bookmakers.

The raider entered Betfred in Aldermoor Road at around 9pm on March 20 and demanded money from a staff member, who locked himself in a room at the back of the store and phoned the police.

Hampshire police described the man as white, 6ft tall, average build and with a local accent.

The force said he was wearing a black balaclava with the eyes showing and a white jumper and left the shop when the staff member called the police.

Nothing was stolen and no-one was injured.

But an investigation has now been launched and witnesses are urged to come forward.

DC Gemma Boyle said: “Were you in Aldermoor Road at the time, did you see what happened? We haven’t received any other similar reports in the area.

“We’ve been speaking to the bookmakers to offer advice and information. They have ensured that their staff have been fully briefed about what to do and how to keep safe if they find themselves in this type of situation."

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting 44190097880.

Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.