A MANHUNT has been launched after an armed robbery at a betting shop in a Hampshire town.

Officers are appealing for information following the robbery at Betting Ltd in Bishops Waltham.

The suspect reportedly jumped over the counter and demanded staff at the Brook Street bookies to open the safe.

He was wearing what appeared to be a homemade balaclava and was holding a knife during the incident which happened at around 2pm on Monday

When the safe was opened, the thief took a quantity of cash, and then ran off.

The offender is described as; white, aged between 20 and 25-years-old, between 5ft-5ins and 5ft-7ins and of average build.

He was wearing a black face covering, a dark coloured hooded top with the hood up and dark blue jeans.

He spoke with a local accent.

Detective constable Al Fiori, said: “We’re appealing for anyone with information about this incident to come and speak to us. Were you in the area of Brook Street at the time of the incident? Did you see the offender on his way to or from the betting shop?

“I would urge anyone with information to get in touch with us as soon as possible by calling Hampshire Constabulary on 101 quoting 44190377202.”