THESE were the frightening moments when a punter reacted violently to losing a bet on a horse race at a Warley bookmakers – and trashed the premises.

CCTV images from May 9 show a man picking up a stool at Tote in Hagley Road West, just before a TV and gaming machines were smashed in a furious over-reaction by the disappointed customer.

PC David Smith of Oldbury police station said: “Significant damage was caused to the bookmakers’ store that day, totalling £10,000.

“We want to speak to anyone who recognises the man pictured to help us with enquiries.”

The offender was black, aged 30 to 40, with distinctive dreadlocks. He wore a black leather jacket, black jeans, and white t-shirt. The offender ran off across Hagley Road West towards Quinton.

Anyone able to help the police inquiry should call Oldbury police station on 0345 113 5000 or speak to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.