A man wielding a suspected firearm stole cash during a raid on a Watford bookmakers last night.

The robbery happened at Paddy Power in The Parade at around 9.50pm when a man entered the shop, approached a member of staff from behind, pushed a hard object to the back of his head, threatened him and demanded money.

Police said the hard object is believed to be a firearm, but no weapon was actually seen.

The man then stole money from the shop (pictured in the map below) and ran out via the main door in the direction of Rosslyn Road.

A member of the public noticed the disturbance and ran after the offender however lost him as he approached The Gade car park. 

Police are keen to speak to this member of the public who ran after the offender as part of their enquiries.

The offender is described as a black man, between the ages of 25-35 and approximately 5ft 10ins tall. He was reported to be wearing a dark coloured top with white drawstrings, light blue jeans and dark footwear.

Investigating officer PC Andy Metselaar, said: “I am appealing to anyone who saw the suspect running from the shop, or anyone who may have information about this crime, to get in contact as soon as possible.

“In particular, I am very keen to speak to the member of the public who ran after the suspect as he could provide crucial information and I would encourage him to get in contact as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police via the non-emergency number 101 quoting crime reference number: C1/15/2430.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.