Guard threatened with “Aids-infected” syringe

The man pulled the weapon on the guard close to Ravenside retail park in Bexhill.

He had initially been spotted acting suspiciously in Boots and bolted out of the store when he was challenged.

The security guard chased him past Halfords and Wickes into Ridgewood Gardens where he fell.

At this point the guard caught up with him but the man then pulled out the syringe and said he had Aids. He ran off again almost immediately after.

The incident happened shortly after 5.30pm on June 6.

He is described as white, 6ft and of medium build. He was wearing a green and blue Tommy Hilfiger top and very distinctive large black rimmed glasses.

PC Anthony Clarke, of Hastings Response Investigation Team, said: “This was a very traumatic incident for the security guard who thankfully was not hurt.

“We need the public’s help to catch this man before he does hurt someone.”

Anyone with information should call Sussex Police on 101 quoting serial 1254 of 6 June or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.