POLICE have appealed for information about an armed robbery of a security guard outside a casino.

It happened at at 3.50pm yesterday ( Thursday February 2) when two masked men approached a security van guard at Grosvenor Casino at Saint James Boulevard in Newcastle city centre.

They threatened him with what was described as a shotgun before stealing a large amount of cash. They fled in a white Audi Q5 4x4 that was found on fire in Gateshead.

The vehicle - registration NL61UDX - had been stolen during a burglary at Bedlington. It is believed the two men then left the area in a second vehicle. Both men had local accents.

Det Imsp Steve Wouldhave said: "One focus of our enquiries is the white Audi Q5 vehicle, and we are keen to hear from anyone who has seen this since it was stolen on Tuesday, including the lead-up to the robbery taking place on Thursday afternoon.

“ Innocent owners of white Audi Q5s can be quickly eliminated from our enquiries.

"We believe the offenders then left the area where the vehicle was burnt out in a second vehicle.

"The investigation is continuing and anyone with information, no matter how insignificant they think it is, should call police as it could be vital."

Anyone with information is asked to call Northumbria Police on 101, extension 69191, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.