A MAN had money snatched out of his hand by a thief as he stood waiting to be served in a shop.

Police are seeking witnesses to the theft which took place at the CEX games store, in Queen Street, Darlington.

The appeal, which has only just been released by police, relates to an offence which took place on June 1, at 1.25pm.

The victim was standing with his family in the queue waiting to be served at a cash desk. He held an item he wished to buy and £40 cash.

Two men entered the store and one of them stood in the queue behind the victim.

While the victim was speaking to his family, the thief reached through between the victim and his partner and snatched the money from the victim's hand before running out of the store.

The second man then also left the store.

The firstman, who stole the money, is described as white, aged between 20 and 25, about 5ft 8in, slim with a fresh complexion, and short, straight, light-brown hair.

He was wearing a dark top with a grey or light grey striped hooded top, over dark trousers.

Hewore dark Puma trainers.

The second man was white, aged between 20 and 25, about 5ft 10in, medium build, a fair complexion, and short, straight, brown hair.

He was wearing a dark Adidas tracksuit with white stripes down both arms and legs, a dark T-shirt and dark trainers.

Anyone with information about the two men is asked to call Durham Police on 0345-6060-365, quoting crime reference SJ1103902, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800555-111.