A HANDGUN was reportedly involved in an armed raid on a Bournemouth convenience store.

Police officers were called at 10.52pm on Monday to an incident which took place at the One Stop store in Seabourne Road, Pokesdown.

A man was reported to have entered the store, approached the till and demanded money from the attendant member of staff.

He later made off with the till tray full of cash.

The robber then turned left after leaving the store.

Dorset Police said a "handgun" was witnessed during the incident, although it is not clear whether this was a real gun or a replica. No one was injured during the raid.

Officers afterwards carried out a search of the area.

Today, Dorset Police arrested a 43-year-old local man on suspicion of robbery. He is currently assisting officers with their enquiries.

Boscombe East ward councillor Christopher Rochester said such a raid was unusual, and praised the police for identifying a suspect.

"Obviously the police are doing the best they can," he said.

"I am very pleased to hear that they have arrested someone.

"As far as I am concerned it is usually pretty safe in Pokesdown, although we have had a few bits and bobs, the Post Office has been raided once or twice."

Asked whether the use of a firearm or imitation firearm surprised him, the councillor said: "Not in today's society. The problem nowadays is these things look so real.

"But I am very surprised to hear it was a local person."

The force is appealing for witnesses to get in touch by calling 101, quoting reference 55170083866, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.