Terrified staff were threatened at gunpoint on Monday during a daring daylight raid at a Bournemouth jeweller's shop.

Three masked robbers, armed with a handgun and hammer, struck at Michael Matthews Jewellery Box in Westover Road at 2.25pm.

The gang smashed display glass and windows before fleeing with a large amount of jewellery.

They were last seen making their getaway in a dark coloured Saab 93 car, which drove off at speed along Gervis Place.

Police are appealing for public help to trace the three men. DS Ashley Rietiker, of Bournemouth CID, said: "Witnesses said one of the men was carrying what appeared to be a handgun.

"Another used a hammer to smash display glass.

"We understand that the three men were wearing overalls and had their faces covered, possibly with masks or balaclavas."

He added: "I'm advising anyone who sees this car or the four men believed to be involved to call the police immediately.

"They should not approach the car or the suspects.

"There are no reports of anyone being injured and no shots were fired during the robbery.

"We'd also like to hear from anyone who saw two or three men acting suspiciously near the shop over the last week or so."

The shop was sealed off while detectives spoke to shocked staff, including the manager, who did not want to discuss what had happened.

A member of staff at the next-door Sony shop, who did not want to be identified, said: "There were three robbers, wearing navy blue waterproofs and ski masks.

"I heard the alarm sounding and then saw a woman and two young children running past.

"When I looked out I saw guys scooping jewellery into a bag from the window display."

With shops in Bournemouth and Southampton, Michael Matthews Jewellery is a family-run business specialising in fine jewellery.

  • Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police on 01202 222222 or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555111.