A MAN armed with what is believed to be a fake gun walked into a takeaway and threatened a customer before demanding cash.

It happened on Sunday, at 11.30pm, at The Curry Garden, in Coatsworth Road, Bensham, Gateshead, and the would-be robber made off empty-handed.

He is described as white, aged 20 to 30, stocky, and was wearing a hooded top.

Police want anyone with information about the incident, or who may have seen anything in the area at the time, to contact Gateshead CID on 0191-454 7555, ext 64159.