DETECTIVES have released a CCTV image of a robber as he carried out a gun-point raid at a betting shop.

A 47-year-old man working at the Stan James bookmakers, in Roundway, Risinghurst, Oxford, was targeted as he shut up the shop at just after 9pm on November 15.

Brandishing a single-barrel black shotgun, the masked robber threatened the employee and forced him to take money from the safe.

The robber, who was described as black and about 6ft tall, made off with a substantial amount of cash, although police have refused to confirm how much was taken in the raid.

Detectives are now hoping that the man’s distinctive clothing might be recognised by an Oxford Mail reader.

He was wearing a light grey hooded top which was covering his head, a cotton scarf which covered most of his face, and a light green duffle-style jacket.

His gloves were similar to those issued by the Forces for chemical warfare and were rubber with a white barcode.

Anyone with any information should call Oxford CID via the 24-hour Police Inquiry Centre on 101, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.