A BOLD shoplifter attempted to walk out of Asda without paying - and then threatened staff with a knife when they challenged him. 

The man entered the supermarket at 7 am on Wednesday and loaded his basket with several electrical goods.

He tried to leave without paying and was challenged by members of staff at the door which resulted in the man threatening them with a knife.   

No-one was injured but staff have been left shaken by the incident which happened in the chain's Harbour Road store in Ardrossan. 

The robber fled empty-handed and ran towards Harbour Road.

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Detective Constable Bryn Meehan said: “This man’s boldness in thinking he could walk out the store without paying for goods like the rest of us was challenged by staff.  However, in doing their job they were threatened with a knife. 

"This is unacceptable and I am appealing to anyone who has any information regarding this man or the incident to contact us. 

"I would also ask motorists to check their dash cams as they may have captured footage which could assist us in our investigation. 

"Please do contact us, no matter how insignificant the information may seem.”

The man is described as white, with a slim build.  He was wearing a dark hooded top with white stripes down the arms and similar tracksuit trousers, with vertical stripes down the leg of the trousers.  His trainers were white and dark coloured.

Officers are checking CCTV footage from in and around the area for any additional information on the suspect.

Anyone with information is asked to call CID officers at Saltcoats Police Station via 101. 

Alternatively, please call Crimestoppers and pass on your information anonymously.