A MASKED man armed with a hammer robbed a lone staff member at a bookmakers, police say.

The incident took place at William Hill, on Sixth Street, in Horden, at about 7.30pm yesterday.

Durham Police said a masked man entered the premises and threatened staff with a hammer, before making off with a quantity of cash.

They are now appealing for witnesses.

Acting Detective Sergeant Andrea Wearmouth, of Peterlee CID, said: “Although there has been no serious injury caused, the lone staff member has been left incredibly shaken by this incident.

“I’d like to encourage anyone who thinks they may have seen anything relevant to get in touch with us as soon as possible.”

Anyone with any information relating to the robbery is asked to contact Durham Police on 101, quoting incident number 419 of October 6.