THREE men, one armed with a gun, carried out a raid on a security van in the village of Headcorn, near Maidstone, today (Angela Zigler writes).

The three raiders held up the Securitas vehicle outside Sainsbury's in the high street at about 11am. The gang leader, who had hidden the gun in a holdall bag, threatened a security guard.

Police say there was a scuffle between the two men. As a result, the guard was knocked to the ground. But no shots were fired and no-one was injured.

The three raiders escaped with a security box containing an amount of cash. They drove off along Forge Lane in a Peugeot car which was later found abandoned in Forge Meadow, Headcorn.

The gunman is described as in his 30s, between 5ft 8ins and 5ft 10ins tall, of stocky build, with short, dark hair and was wearing dark clothing. Police have not yet released descriptions of the other two offenders.

Anyone who witnessed the incident, or has any information, is asked to contact Det Sgt Ian Rogerson on 01622 608182, or contact Crimestoppers free and in confidence on 0800 555 111.