Police were today hunting for robbers who threatened two women shop assistants at the Co-op in Church Road, Benfleet before stealing cash.

Sgt Kevin Diable-White said: "While one man remained outside the Co-op the other jumped over the counter and threatened the two women, saying he had a gun in a bag he was holding.

"He forced them to hand over £200 from the till before running off with the other man." He said the women were shaken by the robbery but unhurt.

Both robbers wore white woolly hats and grey padded jackets. One wore black jeans and the other wore white tracksuit bottoms.

Witnesses should call police on 01268 756221.

Published Monday, April 7 , 2003

Brought to you by the Evening Echo