Attempted robbery in city centre

Part of a Devon city centre was cordoned off by police after an attempted robbery.

No-one was injured in the Lloyds TSB bank on Exeter High Street when a man tried to get into the back of the building.

He was challenged by staff and a member of the public, who he threatened by brandishing a knife.

Police in Exeter cordoned off the area after a bag was found at the scene containing a suspicious device.

Explosive experts were called in to examine what was in the bag.

The offender is described as about 20 years old, 5ft 10in tall, of slender build, with darkish brown hair.

He was wearing dark blue jeans, a white t-shirt and a dark coat.