A KNIFE recovered from the scene of a robbery could help police with their investigation.

The offender entered the Ladbrokes on Bath Road, Thatcham, on January 23 and stole cash from one of the tills.

He entered the shop carrying a knife and black holdall bag at around 6pm.

However his attempts were foiled after he was tripped up by a member of the public.

This caused him to drop the cash and a distinctive knife, which were later recovered by police.

Members of staff had locked themselves in a room during the incident, before the thief was made flee the scene.

He is believed to have ran in the direction of Green Lane and Lower Way and nobody was injured.

The offender is described as a male, around 5ft 10ins tall and of average build. He was wearing dark clothing and a dark face covering.

Detective constable Pam Finch, from Force CID in Newbury, said: “I am appealing for anyone with information about this incident to come forward.

“The knife recovered at the scene is very distinctive. If you recognise it, or have information that could help us to identify the owner, please contact Thames Valley Police.”

Anyone who has information about this incident can report the details on the Thames Valley Police website quoting reference 43190024120.

Alternatively, you can call the non-emergency telephone number, 101, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.