THREE men robbed a bookmakers as the shop was being closed escaping with a substantial amount of cash.

The assistant of Coral bookmakers in Euston Avenue, Watford, was distracted by one man inside the shop as two others entered just before closing at 6pm on Monday, October 20.

The assistant, who was about to cash up, was restrained by two of the robbers while the other stole cash from the till and safe.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the robbery at the bookmakers at the roundabout by Hagden Lane and Tolpits Lane to come forward.

The first man who was in the shop prior to the robbery is described as of Asian appearance and about 5ft 10ins tall.

He was in his early 20s with short dark hair, shaved at the sides and slightly longer on top. He was clean shaven with a thin face and thin build and spoke with a local accent.

Anyone with any information is asked to telephone the Area Crime Unit on 01923 472066.