Two female security guards are today recovering in hospital after armed raiders stormed their van at a supermarket.

At about 10.15am yesterday three men swooped on a Securitas UK van while it was delivering money to a cash machine at Safeway in Wycke Hill, Maldon.

No shots were fired but one of the robbers threatened a guard with a hand gun as she reloaded cash into the machine.

Stormed - police officers at the scene of the raid.

The raiders then made off with the cash in a silver blue Audi car, which was later found in Abbotsmead, off Heybridge Approach.

It is believed a scuffle took place between the guards and the robbers.

Both women were taken to Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford, suffering minor injuries and shock.

A spokesman for Securitas UK said: "The incident took place and we are helping police with their inquiries. It's company policy not to comment on the amount of cash which was taken."

There were several witnesses to the incident and they are currently helping police with their inquiries.

The scene was cordoned off straightaway and the Essex Police helicopter was scrambled to search the area. A forensic team was also sent to the scene to dust for finger prints.

A white male, aged 20 to 30-years-old, with short blond hair and muscular build was seen walking away from the Audi car at 10.30am.

A spokeswoman for Safeway said: "We are obviously very concerned about this incident. We are working closely with the police as they investigate this matter."

The store carried on trading as usual.

One of the robbers is described as white and another as black or of mixed race. Police are appealing for information and are asking people to call the incident room on 01245 491212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

Published Wednesday, June 25, 2003

Brought to you by the Evening Gazette