Detectives are investigating possible links between three robberies, two at knifepoint, at commercial premises in as many days.

A bookies, a Co-op store and a newsagent’s have been targeted in Eccleshill and Bolton Junction, Bradford. Two of the robberies took place within four hours of each other on Sunday evening.

The Betfred bookmakers, in Norman Lane, Eccleshill, was targeted by a would-be robber, shortly after 6pm. The suspect walked into the shop, threatened staff and demanded cash from a member of staff. She remained calm and told him he would not get any money. The man left empty-handed and ran off in the direction of Five Lane Ends.

The man officers want to speak to in connection with the incident is described as white, in his late 20s to early 30s, 5ft 8ins tall, slim and wearing a baseball cap.

Police also want to trace two customers who were playing on gaming machines at the time of the incident.

Shortly after 9.30pm, a knife point robbery took place at the Co-op shop at Bolton Junction.

Two men, wearing tights over their heads and with their hoods up, entered the premises. Both were armed with knives.

One of the men demanded money from a member of staff. The second man threatened her with his knife. The frightened cashier handed over money from the till and the suspects made off.

Police were already investigating a knifepoint robbery at Lister’s newsagent and convenience store in Stone Hall Road, Eccleshill, which happened at 1.45pm last Friday, when two men burst in. One leaned over the counter and brandished a knife. He demanded money and they fled with cash.

One of the robbers had a stocking pulled over his face and wore a grey hooded top. The other wore a black coat, hat and sunglasses.

Detective Inspector Ryan Bragg, of Airedale and North Bradford CID, said: “There are clearly similarities and we are investigating whether the offences may be linked.”

Any witnesses should contact Airedale and North Bradford police on 101.