POLICE are hunting three men after a robbery at a Bournemouth travel agents today.

Officers rushed to Bath Travel on Poole Road, Westbourne, shortly after 3pm, following reports that the offenders had stormed into the premises demanding cash.

The men, all described as white, were then seen fleeing the scene and heading towards Prince of Wales Road.

It is believed they then drove away in a black car, possibly a Volkswagen Golf, or something similar.

Police have confirmed a quantity of money was taken, but have not revealed the amount. No one was injured in the incident.

The police helicopter was scrambled to assist in the search while officers scoured the crime scene for clues.

The shop unit was cordoned off with officers standing guard at both the front and rear entrances.

Detective Sergeant Neil Wright, of Bournemouth CID, said: “This was a frightening ordeal for members of staff.

“I am appealing to anyone who witnessed the incident, or saw three men running away from the scene or getting into a dark coloured car, to please call me on 101.

“All calls will be treated in strict confidence.”

Police could later be seen on nearby Nelson Road, where a section of the road near a wooded area was cordoned off.

Two police cars remained at the scene into the afternoon and a forensics officer could be seen examining the ground and taking photographs.

No arrests have been made.

A spokesman for Bath Travel's parent company, Hays Travel, said that they could not comment at this stage.

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101 quoting incident number 17:251. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.