Appeal: Attempted Armed Robbery, Rothwell

City and Holbeck police are appealing for information following an attempted armed robbery at a post office in Rothwell.

At about 11.15am yesterday a man, armed with a black handgun, went into the post office, in Wood Lane, and threatened the female member of staff on duty and demanded cash.

She immediately activated the alarm and the man ran empty-handed from the premises.

Witnesses reported seeing him drop the gun and then pick it up again as he made off along Wood Lane and down Haighside Drive.

Armed officers and the Force helicopter searched the area but the suspect could not be found.

He was described as white, aged 20 to 30, and about 5ft 6ins to 5ft 8ins tall. He was wearing a black hooded jacket with the hood up, and had a black scarf across his face.

The member of staff was left badly shaken by the incident.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or who has any information that could assist the investigation is asked to contact Detective Constable Carmel Houghton at Holbeck police station via 101, or contact Crimestoppers, anonymously and in confidence on 0800 555 111.