Detectives investigating a third robbery at a bookmakers’ in Whyteleafe are appealing to the community for their help to identify the man responsible.

Just before 8.50pm last night (Thursday, 28 January) a man forced open the locked door at Pridmore Bookmakers, Godstone Road, and demanded money from the employee.

The employee handed over a large quantity of money and the robber walked out of the shop turning left as he exited the bookmakers.

No customers were in the shop at the time and the employee was not injured.

The robber is described as a man, muscular build, 6ft tall, aged between his late 20s or mid 30s and he spoke with a south London accent. He was wearing an olive green hooded top with the hood covering his face and a blue scarf wrapped around his face.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable Kerry Akehurst said: “Obviously it is very concerning to us this business has been targeted for a third time and we are looking at the similarities between the robberies and will be viewing CCTV footage of this latest incident.

“Officers from the local Safer Neighbourhood Team are assisting detectives and will be looking into CCTV opportunities at the nearby train stations.

“Pridmore Bookmakers is on the busy A22 main road so I am keen to speak with anyone who was in the area at around 8.30pm on Thursday, 28 January as they may have vital information.

“It is important to remember that on each occasion no one was injured.”

Anyone with information is urged to contact detectives at Reigate CID on 0845 125 2222