Police are appealing for information about and witnesses to an attempted armed robbery at the Hillcrest Newsagency in Montello, Burnie where two male offenders entered the shop about 7pm on Wednesday night.

The men were armed, one with a handgun and the other with a knife, demanded cash from the female staff member who was working alone in the shop at the time.

The cash had already been secured and the offenders fled empty handed.

It is unknown whether the offenders had access to a vehicle, or at this time, in which direction they went.  They were both wearing stockings over their heads and hooded windcheaters with a large motif on the front, possibly a cartoon hand peace sign, blue track pants and white running shoes.  The men are both of slim build, one slightly taller than the other.

Any information can be provided to police by calling 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.  Information can be provided anonymously.