ARMED robbers have escaped with thousands of pounds after attacking security guards with ammonia at a high street bank.

Two Securicor guards were surrounded by a gang which squirted the liquid and threatened them with a metal bar as they loaded a cashpoint.

The raid happened at Abbey National in Gosforth High Street, Newcastle, at 9.30pm on Wednesday.

Detective Inspector Lee Buzzeo, of Newcastle CID, said: "We are looking at what appears to be a pre-planned robbery.

"At this stage we do not know how much was taken.

"We would appeal for anyone who was in the area and could help the inquiry to contact us."

Two robbers wearing boiler- suits and ski masks struck when the guards began filling up a cashpoint. It is believed a getaway driver may have been waiting nearby.

One guard was in the security vehicle while the other two were outside helping to load cartridges of cash.

One of the guards, a 49-year-old, needed hospital treatment for the effects of the ammonia.

The robbers were described as between 5ft 8in and 5ft 10in. One was of stocky build.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 0191-214 6555, ext 62944.