POLICE have released images of two men they want to speak to following an attempted robbery at a store in Redditch.

During the incident at the Spar in Batchley Road which happened at about 7.15am on Tuesday, January 21, one man threatened the cashier and pulled the till off a counter onto the floor.

But when the cashier called out to another member of staff the offender, who spoke with a local accent, walked out of the shop empty-handed and fled the scene with an accomplice waiting outside. No-one was hurt during the incident.

Now detectives have released CCTV images of two men they wish to trace in connection with the incident and have appealed for the public’s help to identify them.

Detective Constable Claire Johnson of North Worcestershire CID said: “At around 6.20am, an hour before the attempted robbery, the offenders walked into the store and bought a few items before walking off towards a pond near the store. They then returned to the shop but this time one went inside and the other stayed outside, presumably acting as a lookout.

“We are releasing pictures of two men we wish to speak to about this offence and we would urge people to have a good look at them and let us know as soon as possible if they recognise either of them or think they know who they are.

“Whether you know their names, live near to one of them or think you have seen them somewhere we need to know as it could be vital to our inquiries.

“It’s vital the offenders are caught quickly so if you know anything or have any suspicions at all please get in touch.”

Anyone with information should North Worcestershire CID at Redditch Police Station on the non-emergency number 101, quoting incident reference 71-S-210114. Details may also be passed on anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.