Armed robbers held two women, one aged in her 80s, at knifepoint after forcing their way into a newsagents.

Police were called to Martins in Whitmore Way, Basildon, at 5.45am this morning (Monday, March 16).

Sgt Patrick Walsh said: "Two male suspects forced their way into the rear of the premises while staff were collecting the newspaper delivery and held the two female staff members, one of whom is in her 80s, at knifepoint and demanded money from the safe."

The younger woman was grabbed by the collar and hair.

The suspects fled with approximately £2,000 in cash from the safe.

The staff members were shocked but not injured.

One of the suspects may have been black, was aged in his 20s, slim and about 6ft tall.

He wore grey tracksuit bottoms, a black puffa jacket with the hood up and had a stripy scarf of different colours wrapped around his face.

The second suspect may have been black, was aged in his 20s, of slim build and about 6ft tall. He wore all black clothing and his face was covered, possibly with a scarf.

Witnesses, or anyone with information, is asked to call Basildon CID on 101.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or www.crimestoppers-uk.org