A thief who tried to rob a bank was scared off when a member of staff screamed for help.

Police say the suspect approached the worker as she tried to open a staff-only door at the HSBC bank in Wangey Road, Chadwell Heath.

The man grabbed her and tried to pull her out of the way, but then ran off empty-handed after she screamed.

It happened at 1pm on Wednesday September 18, but police have only released information about the incident today in the hope witnesses will come forward.

A Met spokeswoman said: "The suspect is described as a male, Asian in appearance, aged in his 40s, of medium build, with black receding hair and stubble on his face.

"He was wearing a black North Face jacket, dark blue jeans and dark trainers."

Anyone with information urged to contact Goodmayes Neighbourhood Policing Team on 020 8721 2766, quoting reference 4417712/13.