A MANHUNT is underway for suspects following an armed robbery at a shop.

A shopkeeper was threatened at gunpoint during this morning’s robbery in North Shields before offenders escaped on foot.

It is believed a handgun was used in the raid at the One Stop on Kirton Park Terrace just after 6.20am.

A spokesman for Northumbria Police said: “The offenders threatened a member of staff with a gun before taking the shop till and leaving the scene on foot.

“No injuries have been reported but the member of staff has been left shaken by the incident.”

Police carried out a major operation, which involved around a dozen police cars as well as both armed officers and dog units.

One man was arrested in the Chirton area, about a mile away from the scene of the hold-up. However, a second suspect is believed to still be at large and officers are searching the area, including allotments and gardens.

• Anyone with information is asked to ring Northumbria Police on 101.