A MAN carrying a knife carried out a convenience store robbery just over an hour after he fled empty handed from a botched robbery at another shop.

Detectives have released a CCTV image of the suspect, who they believe first targeted the Co-op, Castle Lane West, Bournemouth, around 3.35pm on Thursday, May 20.

He demanded money from a staff member, but they refused to hand anything over and the robber fled ran away.

Then, around 4.50pm later that day, the man – who detectives believe is the same individual – entered McColls, Turbury Road, Ferndown, and took an item to the till.

When the cashier went to scan the item, the till opened and the robber told them to put money into a bag.

Once again, the cashier refused, but the robber managed to grab some cash before running out of the store.

Police say he was in possession of a knife but did not threaten anyone with it.

Detective Sergeant Ian Allen, of Bournemouth CID, said: “We are carrying out a thorough investigation to identify the man responsible for these offences and as part of our enquiries we have obtained a CCTV image of the suspect.

“I appreciate his face is mostly covered, but I would urge anyone with information as to his identity to please contact us.

“I would also like to hear from any witnesses or anyone who may have captured anything relevant on dashcam footage.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55210079750.

Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.