THE man suspected of trying to rob two bookies in Tullibody is believed to have struck again in Stirling.

Police say a tattoo parlour in Raploch was targeted yesterday afternoon at 3.45pm.

A man entered Santa Cruz Kustom Club in the possession of a knife and demanded money.

However, he fled empty-handed, on foot, and in the direction of Waulker Avenue.

Investigators say it is possible he may have then travelled towards the Sainsbury's on Drip Road.

He is described as a white, of slim build, around 5ft 10ins to 6ft tall, in his twenties, wearing all dark blue or black clothing and had a rucksack in his hand.

Alan, an employee at the tattoo parlour, said: "Everyone here is fine.

"Obviously we weren't expecting it to happen and you don't expect that to happen, but you just react and deal with it.

"But everyone is fine and spirits are high - and we're open for business as normal."

When asked about the incident itself, he said: "It was about 15 to 20 seconds from him coming in the shop to running back out.

"The boy at reception told him we don't have any money because we don't keep a register and he just bolted."

Officers believe the same man may have been responsible for another attempted robbery committed earlier in the day at the Betfred bookies on Ochil Street, Tullibody.

He is suspected of carrying out similar attempts on Monday, January 21, and Tuesday, January 22, at the Tullibody Ladbrokes and a bookies in Falkirk, respectively.

Detective Chief Inspector Vicky Watson from Falkirk CID said: “It is fortunate that on all these occasions no one has been injured and nothing has been stolen during the incidents. However, these have all been understandably frightening events for the victims involved.

“We’re keen to hear from anyone who may have seen a man matching the above description in the Raploch area of Stirling yesterday afternoon, or who may have information to help us identify the man involved.

“Our inquiries continue and we are using all resources at our disposal to investigate these instances thoroughly, and would ask anyone who can assist us to get in touch as soon as possible."

Those with information are asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 2261 of January 23, or, alternatively, the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.