A TRICKSTER stole £2,000 from an Ellesmere Port bookmakers after he spotted the cashier readying some winnings for a customer to collect.

The con artist – purporting to be the lucky customer – seized the opportunity at Manny Cook Bookmakers, Milton Road, Ellesmere Port, on Saturday, April 24, after seeing the cashier taking the cash out of the safe and even thanked them as he accepted the winnings in an envelope.

Cheshire police are appealing for help to identify the man from CCTV footage.

“Attempts to trace the man have so far been unsuccessful, and so it is hoped that the public may recognise the thief,” said Cheshire police spokesperson Jacqui Hanson.

Anyone with information is asked to contact PC Henderson or DS Parr at Ellesmere Port Neighbourhood Policing Team on 0845 458 0000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.