DETECTIVES were today stepping up the hunt for a pair of armed robbers who used a gun to hold up a New Forest bookies.

Two men burst into the Ladbrokes betting shop in New Milton where one then threatened to use the firearm on a member of staff if they were not given any money.

The thieves then took some cash from the betting shop in Station Road, before making their getaway. Nobody was hurt.

Officers are now examining CCTV footage to try and identify the robbers and have been collecting witness statements after the terrifying ordeal, which occurred around 8.30pm on Friday.

The bookies was closed following the raid as crime scene investigators examined the shop for any evidence of the robbers.

Inspector Tony Turner said the gunman was believed to be a 20-year-old man who was wearing a hooded top with the hood up.

The man is described as a man approximately 5ft8in in height, of a skinny build and about 20 years of age.

A spokesperson for Ladbrokes was unavailable to comment on the robbery.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Lyndhurst CID on 0845 045 4545 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.