A man has been arrested in connection with an armed robbery which took place at a car dealership on Canvey this weekend.

The incident, which was captured on CCTV, saw a lone suspect enter the Chariots Car Centre, in Canvey Road, Canvey, approach a member of staff.

The footage, which cannot be shown for legal reasons, shows the man threaten the member of staff with what appears to be a gun and demanded he empty the safe.

The staff member, who appears to remain relatively calm throughout the ordeal, manages to make off from the suspect by fleeing the premises.

The CCTV shows the suspect following him out the door.

Witnesses reported several armed units rushing to the scene and police have now released a statement on the incident.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "We are investigating a robbery at a car centre in Canvey, which took place on Friday, January 19. 

"A man entered the premises on Canvey Road around 6.15pm and threatened staff with what appeared to be a gun. 

"The man demanded staff open a safe, but quickly ran off. No one was injured and nothing was taken. 

"A 61-year-old man from Canvey was arrested on suspicion of robbery and possession of a firearm and has been released under investigation.

"Anyone with information is asked to call Basildon CID on 101.

"Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information."