A THIEF tried to smash the window of a St Neots shop in a failed attempt to steal jewellery.

A man wearing a balaclava and gloves attempted to break the window of Market Square jewellers Goldstraw at 9.20am on Monday (January 7).

The owner of the shop chased the man, described as black, 5ft 10in, slim, clean shaven with short curly hair.

Detective Sergeant Jim Donington said: “The town would have been busy at the incident and I am keen to hear from anyone who saw the man.

“We know the man removed his balaclava as he ran away and would urge anyone who saw him to contact police.”

INFORMATION: Anyone with information should call Det Sgt Donington on 101 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.