Guards Robbed at Newcastle Cash Machine

Police are investigating an armed robbery at a cash machine in Newcastle

Two security guards in a transit van were at the stand alone cash machine at the junction of Welbeck Road and St Anthony's Road filling the machine up with cash when they were approached by two men - just after ten this morning.

They were approached by two men armed with a firearm and a hammer, who threatened them before stealing an amount of cash and making off in what is believed to be a stolen vehicle. It's thought the security guards were also assaulted with the hammer.

Both security guards - men aged 55 and 28 - were taken to hospital as a precaution but they've been discharged now

Both offenders are described as being about 5ft 10ins tall of medium build and were wearing dark clothes and footwear and dark motorcycle helmets. They made off in a grey car which was found burned out at Byker Terrace. This car is believed to be stolen.

DS Tony Gallagher said: "The security guards were obviously left extremely shaken after this incident but thankfully neither were seriously injured and have both been seen at hospital and discharged.

"The offenders made off from the area with an amount of cash in a car which is believed to be stolen. This was later found burned out in Byker Terrace.

"We're making extensive enquiries into this incident, which includes speaking with witnesses, checking CCTV footage in the area and utilising forensic techniques to trace these two men.

"This sort of violent behaviour is unacceptable and I'd urge anyone with information about what happened and who is responsible to get in touch with us as soon as possible."

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 03456 043 043 ext 69191, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Callers to Crimestoppers may be eligible for a cash reward.