Staff threatened in armed robbery at Leeds petrol station

MASKED knife-wielding armed robbers struck at a Jet petrol station in Leeds this morning.

The three balaclava-clad men armed with knives targeted Wharrells Service Station, in Lowtown, Pudsey, just before 6.20am this morning. (Tues July 18)

They threatened staff and forced them into a back room before stealing cash from the till.

Detectives believe a report at 6.28am of the attempted theft of a van making deliveries in Tong Drive, Farnley, is likely to be linked to the robbery.

A suspect got into the unlocked vehicle while the driver was making a delivery but found the driver had taken the keys with him. He left the scene in a black Volkswagen Sirocco, bearing a cloned registration FN12CYS.

Detective Inspector Dave McDougal, of Leeds District CID, said: "We are carrying out extensive enquiries and are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the robbery of the attempted van theft or saw the black Sirocco anywhere in the area. That vehicle has not yet been recovered and we would like to hear from anyone who has seen that car abandoned or parked up anywhere."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Leeds District CID via 101 quoting log number 261 of July 18 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.