SHOTS have been fired during an attempted armed robbery outside a supermarket in Clacton.

Police were called to reports that two security guards were approached by two men outside the Tesco store in the Brook Retail Park, London Road, just before 11.40am today.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "One of the suspects, who had what appeared to be a firearm, threatened the victims and demanded they open the cash machines.

"Two shots were fired but no-one was injured and the suspects left empty-handed in a grey or silver car, which may have had a third person inside.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette:

  • The security van outside Clacton on Brook Retail Park.

"There is not believed to be any threat posed to any members of the wider community."

He added that witnesses or anyone with information to contact Essex Police on 101.

The supermarket is not believed to have been forced to close because of the incident.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette:

  • A policewoman by the cordoned off area by the cash machines.

A Tesco spokesperson said: “We are supporting the police with their investigations in any way we can.

"Luckily no one was hurt in this incident.”

Most workers in neighbouring outlets were unaware of what was going on although some reported seeing police cars and hearing the police helicopter.

Any witnesses can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or crimestoppers-uk.org.

Clacton and Frinton Gazette:

  • Where this morning's armed raid took place. IMAGE: GOOGLE MAPS