Detectives in the New England area have renewed their appeal for public help as they continue their inquiries into an attempted armed robbery at an Inverell service station.

Just before 11pm on Thursday 5 May, an unknown man entered the service station on Otho Street, Inverell, and threatened the female console operator with a large hunting knife.

The woman refused to hand over any cash and locked herself in an office before phoning police.

The offender left empty-handed.

Police from New England Local Area Command arrived a short time later and secured a crime scene.

Patrols of the surrounding area failed to locate the offender – who’s described as being of Caucasian appearance, with a slim build and brown hair.

He was last seen wearing a black t-shirt, blue jeans, white shoes and a clown mask.

Investigating officers have released closed-circuit television of the man in a bid to identify and locate him.

Detectives are continuing their inquiries and anyone who knows the man’s identity or has any other information that might assist investigators is urged to contact Inverell Police Station via Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000