Suspect runs from botched raid

A would-be robber fled a Telford bank after a botched raid.

He passed a note to a cashier at NatWest, Russell Square, Madeley, saying he was armed and demanding money.

But the member of staff, who did not see a weapon, remained calm and the man, who was described by witnesses as being "well built with a beer belly", left with nothing.

Detectives in Telford are now investigating yesterday's incident, which they are treating as an attempted robbery.

Constable Pete Simmonds said: "The note the man passed to the clerk implied he was armed and wanted money, but did not specify what weapon he claimed to have.

"We are speaking to other forces in case they have dealt with any similar incidents."

The offender is described as a white male in his 30s.

He was unshaven with a few days' growth of stubble and was wearing a dark beanie hat, a dark jacket with a broad light band around it at chest level, and a light-coloured fleece top.

He also wore dark tracksuit bottoms, with two white stripes up each leg, and trainers.

Police are now studying CCTV images from the bank following the incident yesterday at about 10.30am.

Detective Sergeant Andy Garrett of Telford CID said: "This incident is being treated as an attempted robbery and it was a serious attempt that caused concern.

"The bank was fortunately empty at the time and it may be this person was hanging around waiting for customers to leave. I appeal for anyone who may have seen this man, or may know who he is to give me a call."

Natwest spokesman Nigel Meffen said: "We are working very closely with police in dealing with this matter."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 08457 444888.