Police are hoping witnesses will come forward following an incident in which a man entered Boscombe East Post Office on Christchurch Road and took a Covid-19 traffic light sign into the road, before cutting it with a knife and walking off.

Dorset Police received the report at around 11.55am on Thursday 9 December.

The offender is described as white, around 50 years old and approximately five feet six inches tall. He was wearing a black beanie hat, black and cream-coloured jacket and blue jeans.

Officers attended and carried out searches of the area. Enquiries to locate the man involved are ongoing.

Chief Inspector Neil Wright, of Dorset Police, said: “There will continue to be a police presence in the area as we carry out these enquiries and officers can be approached by members of the public with any concerns.

“While there is no information to suggest any threats were made to members of the public, this is clearly a concerning incident involving a knife and we are keen to identify the man involved.

“I would urge anyone who witnessed the incident, or who has any information that might assist our enquiries, to please contact us immediately.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/do-it-online, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number DOR-20211209-0233. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.