Raider flees after told to 'clear off'

A masked raider fled empty handed after being told to "clear off" by a Staffordshire postmaster.

Peter Thompson, who runs Woodseaves Post Office in Newport Road, near Stafford, said he was angry at the man for trying to take his money but was shocked when he ran off.

The unsuccessful thief, who was wearing a black balaclava and carrying a holdall which was believed to contain a gun, struck at around 1200 BST on Thursday.

Mr Thompson, aged 49, who has only been at the post office for 12 months said: "It was terrifying. I was in the shop on my own and all I had with me at the time was a box of crisps.

"He came in and demanded cash and he said he wanted my money. I didn't know what to do, but I was so angry that I shouted at him to 'clear off and get out of my shop' and he did."

Police said no weapon was seen and nothing was taken.

Mr Thompson followed the man and saw him pull off his balaclava.

He is white, of slim build, and with short brown hair. He was wearing a black woolly jumper and dark trousers.