POLICE are hunting robbers who held up a newsagents near Durham, before stealing a substantial amount of cash.

The raiders, who were wearing masks, struck at 9.45pm last night at McColl's in Alnwick Road, Newton Hall.

A spokeswoman for Durham Constabulary said two men threatened shop staff and demanded cash.

They escaped with a sizeable sum in a car driven by a third man.

The staff were shaken, but unharmed.

The men in the shop were both wearing blue and white lumber style tops and dark trousers. They left in a dark saloon car.

Anyone with information is asked to ring Durham City CID on 0345-6060-365 or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800-555111.