A Preston supermarket was evacuated earlier today after armed gang tried to steal cash.

Two robbers, who were believed to be armed with handguns, attempted to rob the cash office at Asda, Pitman Way, Fulwood store at around 12.20pm.

A staff member at the store is believed to have been threatened with a firearm.

It is believed the gang set fire to their escape van and then fled into the woods behind the store.

A police helicopter and joined the search for the suspects while officers with dogs searched the surrounding streets.

Shoppers inside the store were told to leave immediately due to fire incident and that it was not a drill.

The store reopened at around 1pm.