A BALACLAVA-CLAD man threatened staff in a bookmakers before taking a four-figure sum of cash.

The male entered Coral, in Ongar Road, Brentwood, at about 7.30pm on Wednesday where he threatened staff with violence.

He then took the cash from the till and ran out.

No weapon was involved in the robbery and a search of the surrounding area could not find any trace of the man.

The assailant is described as white and was wearing a black jacket and blue jeans.

Anyone with information in connection with this robbery is urged to contact detectives at Basildon police station on 101.