An armed robber has raided a bookmaker in South Lanarkshire.

Detectives at Hamilton are appealing for witnesses following the robbery at the bookies in Bothwell on Monday.

At around 4.45pm, a 54-year-old woman was working at McKenna Bookmakers in Main Street when a man, armed with what is believed to be a firearm, entered the shop.

He threatened the woman and demanded cash.  He then made off on foot with a three figure sum of money. The incident is the third armed robbery in Lanarkshire in the past week.

Last Monday, November 23, two men robbed a William Hill bookmakers in Rutherglen. Then, the following day, two men threatened a Post Office worker in Viewpark, Uddingston, with a firearm before escaping with a six figure sum.

A spokesperson from Strathclyde Police said there is no connection with the robberies.

The suspect of the Bothwell robbery is described as between five feet eight inches and five feet ten inches tall in height and of slim to medium build.

He was wearing dark clothing and gloves. His face was covered with a scarf.

Detective Sergeant Neil MacKay at Hamilton is appealing for witnesses.  He said: "It is possible that the suspect was hanging about in the area prior to committing this crime.  Main Street would have been relatively busy at the time with people heading home from work. 

"I am therefore keen to speak to anyone who was either walking or driving in Main Street, Bothwell from 4.30pm on Monday afternoon and noticed the suspect to get in touch.

"Any person with information is asked to contact Hamilton CID on 01698 483359.  Alternatively telephone Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 where anonymity can be maintained."