ARMED robbers fled with hundreds of pound in cash after holding up a bookie shop with a knife.

A Northumbria Police spokesman said two men entered Betfred, in Fewster Square, Gateshead, at around 9.45pm last night police.

They threatened the female staff member, who was the only person in the premises at the time, and demanded she had over cash.

The offenders then grabbed around £300 from the till before making off through the front door.

Officers attended but after a search of the area it was established that those responsible had left the scene.

The spokesman said: "Thankfully the female staff member was uninjured but she was very shaken up by the robbery.

"Inquiries to trace those responsible are ongoing but police are now appealing for any witnesses to get in touch."

The males are described as aged in their teens with one wearing a grey hoody and the other wearing a black hoody. Both had their faces covered.

The spokesman added: "There will be a highly visible policing presence in the area today to carry out inquiries and to reassure anyone who has any concerns.

"If you know those responsible, saw anyone acting suspiciously in the area at the time or have information that could help police then call officers on 101 quoting log 1129 20/09/17."