AN ARMED robber has escaped with several hundred pounds following a raid at a Barry bookies.

A female assistant in the William Hill betting shop, on Barry Road, was threatened by a man - who was armed with a handgun - on on Tuesday evening (July 15).

The man demanded she hand over money.

Police scrambled a helicopter and armed officers closed off the roads in the area surrounding the crime scene.

The incident took place at around 8.30pm and the robber was last seen heading in the direction of the Royal Hotel in Cadoxton.

He is described as being white, with an olive complexion, unshaven with about two days of stubble growth, and about 5ft 2in tall.

He was wearing a dark baseball cap, dark jacket and sunglasses and he spoke with a local accent.

Abdul, who was working in the Barry Road Stores next door to the bookmakers, said: "There was a man with a gun, but he disappeared so quickly.

"The police had guns - they came 15 minutes after it happened.

"They checked our camera system as well, but they didn't find anything. The last time there was a robbery in High Street they caught the robber within half an hour.

"I think the bookmakers should have a camera outside, because there are girls working inside and their life is at risk."

"We are completely shocked," he added.

"Last night I didn't sleep well I imagined that next time it could be us."

A spokesman for William Hill said the company would not comment on an incident of this nature.

Acting Detective Inspector Joe Sweeney said he was appealing for anyone who has any information regarding this very serious crime to contact Barry CID or Crimestoppers where they would be able to pass information in complete confidence.

"I would like to reassure the public that incidents such as this are extremely rare," he added.

Police also say they would also like to speak to two males who were seen in the William Hill and Betfred betting offices on Holton Road at around 6.30pm to eliminate them from their enquiries.

Both were wearing dark jackets and baseball caps.

Anyone with information should call Barry CID on 01446 731606 or Crimestoppers, free and anonymously, on 0800 555111.