KENT Police have released CCTV images of a man they would like to talk to in connection with an attempted armed robbery.

The suspect, armed with a handgun and a knife, struck as the 36-year-old manager of Coral bookmakers unlocked the door in Station Road, Longfield, near Gravesend, just before 8am today.

He ordered the manager to open the shop’s safe and followed him inside. When the safe could not be accessed, the manager was ushered into the kitchen area and told to stay there while the robber made his getaway.

No-one was hurt and nothing was taken.

The incident is being investigated by Det Sgt Cameron Riley, of Gravesend police, said: "The man in the CCTV images is white, stocky, around 30 years old and 5ft 11in tall. He wore a dark padded jacket and baseball hat.

"Hopefully someone will be able to put a name to this face but I would also like to hear from anyone who witnessed anything suspicious or has information about this crime."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Det Sgt Riley on 01474 565091 or Kent Crimestoppers, in confidence, on 0800 555111.