Detectives have released CCTV footage in an effort to track down a man suspected of carrying out two armed robberies in Southend.
The attack happened in William Hill in West Street at 7.30pm back on November 16.
The CCTV shows him threaten a cashier with a handgun, before demanding money.
But the male worker ran to the back of the shop, meaning the man left empty-handed.
The gunman is described as white, of medium build, is aged in his late 30s or early 40s and, at the time, has a shaven or balding head.
He had been wearing a navy-blue anorak, dark jumper, black trousers and black trainers.
He is believed to have then walked off and down West Street.
Investigating Officer, Dc Layla Barker, said: "The man's face is clearly shown and I would like to think that someone knows who he is.
"He will be someone's father, brother or son and we would urge them to contact us with his name.
"In addition, we are looking to identify a key witness in the William Hill attempted robbery.
"As people may see, he is setting at the fruit machine next to the betting shop's front door. We believe he is called Jim. Again, we would like to hear from him."
The assailant is also thought to have committed a similar-style attack at Chartwell Gallery on Southchurch Road at 5pm earlier on that day, but ran off when confronted by a staff member.
Anyone with information in connection with either robbery is urged to contact detectives at Southend police station on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.
