Police are hunting a masked man armed with a bat who was involved in a Post Office robbery this afternoon.

Police were called to Latchingdon Post Office just before 3pm following reports that a man had entered the premise wearing a mask.

He went on to smash the glass with the bat and threaten the female cashier before stealing a four figure sum of money.

The cashier escaped from the back of the Post Office and was not injured during the robbery.

The man is described as 5ft 7-9 inches tall, stocky, well built and wearing a bomber type tan jacket.

Detectives want to speak to anyone who was in the area at the time and may have seen the man feeling the scene.

Dc Ray Hull said: "This happened on a busy village street with shoppers and passing motorists and I hope that witnesses may be able to provide us with vital information."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Chelmsford CID on 101.

If you witnessed the robbery please get in touch on 01376 334340 or email alexandra.grainger@nqe.com