An arcade game that allows people to vent their anger at bankers has proved so popular the owner keeps having to replace worn out mallets.

Inventor Tim Hunkin introduced “Whack a Banker”, which is based on the older “Whack a Mole” game, at his arcade on Southwold pier in Suffolk.

Instead of players hitting pop-up moles with a mallet, within a set time, the target is pop-up bald figures.

Mr Hunkin said the game was “proving very popular”.

“I keep having to replace worn-out mallets,” he said.

“The bankers are bald and all look the same because that’s how I think people see bankers, as faceless.”

Players, who are promised a “truly rewarding banking experience”, pay 40p to hit as many bankers as they can in 30 seconds.

When a customer wins a voice says: “You win. We retire. Thank you very much to the taxpayer for paying our pensions.”