A KNIFEMAN and a man wielding a hammer struck at bookmakers in separate incidents last night.
A 5.30pm a man attempted to rob North East Racing, West Road, Newcastle, but fled when the alarm sounded.
The man walked into the shop and threatened staff, but left when the alarm was activated.
No cash was stolen and no one was injured.
The offender is described as 5ft 6ins tall, of stocky build and was wearing a black hat, black mask and a grey sports jacket.
Three hours later at 8.30pm, a hammer-wielding robber escaped with £400 after threatening staff.
The incident happened at the Ladbrokes shop on Speculation Place, Concord, Washington, Tyne and Wear.
A Northumbria Police spokesman said the man, who wore a balaclava mask, walked into the premises and demanded cash.
He was handed the £400 from the tills after threatening staff with the hammer. He then made off without harming either staff or customers.
He is described as white, in his 30s and approximately 5ft 10ins tall.
Anyone with information is asked to ring the police on 03456 043043.
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