THREE people have been arrested following reports of an armed robbery at a petrol station.

Two members of staff at a Tesco service station in Worthing were allegedly threatened by a man with a firearm and forced to reopen the recently closed store.

The suspect stole personal items from the victims, as well as cash from the till and a large amount of tobacco and cigarettes before fleeing on foot.

One of the victims suffered minor injuries to her hand.

Officers tracked a suspected offender to a property on a nearby housing estate.

Two men from Worthing, aged 32 and 39, and a 29-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of robbery.

All three remain in police custody.

The incident happened in New Road, Durrington, at about midnight on Tuesday, December 14.

Detective Inspector Pauline Lane said: “We understand the impact incidents such as these have on the community and residents can expect to see an increased police presence in the area over the next few days.

“We would like to thank the public for their patience and understanding while the investigation is ongoing.”

Anybody who witnessed the incident or has relevant CCTV, doorbell or dash-cam footage is asked to contact police online or by calling 101, quoting Operation Quagmire.