A GETAWAY driver left two robbers in the lurch when he lost his nerve during a bungled raid.

Two men with scarves over their faces, one wielding a baseball bat, burst into The Top Shop in Fines Road, Medomsley, near Consett, and demanded cash from the terrified shop assistant.

A third man was seen outside, waiting in a white saloon car. But police believe he panicked and hit the accelerator, leaving his accomplices in the lurch.

The sight of the getaway car taking off without them was too much for the pair inside who fled left empty handed in the direction of the Pretoria Club.

The only clue detectives have to the identity of the two raiders is that one has olive-coloured skin, revealed when witnesses saw the scarf covering the robber's face slip as he ran. The botched raid took place last Friday at 4.15pm.

Police have issued an e-fit picture of the driver, described as white, in his mid-30s, with dark, receding hair. Anyone with information should contact Consett Police Station on (01207) 504204.