POLICE are hunting a would-be thief who attempted to rob a Hampshire store armed with a knife.

A shop-worker at a convenience store in Waterhouse Lane, Freemantle, was threatened with a small knife as the hooded thug burst into the store, demanding money from the till.

But the brave member of staff refused to hand over the cash and told him to leave, forcing the man to flee empty handed.

The would-be thief is described as white, in his 30s, around 6ft tall, with a ginger/brown beard. He was wearing a plain grey, hooded top.

Anyone with any information about the attempted robbery, which happened at 12.30pm on Saturday, should call DC Lucy Stewart at Shirley CID on 101 of alternatively you can call the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.