Two men wearing balaclavas stormed into The Local on Queen's Park View, Handbridge, Chester, at 9.55pm on Tuesday, armed with large knives and threatened two staff members.

The robbers made demands of the staff, an 18-year-old man and a 22-year-old woman, before stealing a quantity of cash, cigarettes and alcohol from the store.

Cheshire Constabulary spokeswoman Rachel Hayes said: "Neither staff member was injured but they were obviously shaken by the incident and are being supported by police."

The men left the store on foot but police believe they used a silver Mercedes SLK as a getaway car.

Police officers went to a one-vehicle road traffic collision on Essex Road, Kingsway, Newton, shortly after the robbery and a Mercedes matching the description was found abandoned at the scene.

Miss Hayes confirmed the car has been linked to the robbery.

The first man was described as being of stocky build, about 5ft 10in to 6ft tall. He was dressed in a dark jacket and trousers, with a hood and balaclava.

The second man was described as being of small build and height and was dressed in a dark jacket and light trousers. He was also wearing a hood and a balaclava.

Both men spoke in a local accent.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the robbery and the crash on Essex Road.

Anyone with information should call DC Clare Fletcher or PC Anna Thorley on 01244 613141.

Information can also be left anonymously on the Crimestoppers hotline 0800 555 111.