Two people have been arrested in connection with an alleged robbery at a store near Sherborne.

At around 12.30pm on Tuesday, January 9 Dorset Police received a report of an armed robbery at the Spar store in Yetminster. 

It was reported that a man armed with a knife jumped over the counter and stole the till before making off in a blue vehicle.

The vehicle was seen to drive off along Thornford Road in the direction of Chetnole.

The till was later recovered near to the scene in Stonyacres.

A 39-year-old man and a 32-year-old woman, both from Yeovil, have now been arrested on suspicion of robbery and are assisting officers with their enquiries.

No-one was injured but police say it has caused concern in the village and patrols are being stepped up to offer reassurance.

Residents told of their shock following the raid.

Shirley Graham, the manager of The Flying Pig food and deli shop near the Spar said: "It was bit of a shock really.

"I didn't grow up too far from here, and I am shocked to hear they have been targeted."

Resident Sebastian Thrower said: "It's pretty stunning, as we don't get that round here.

"Everyone here knows each other, so I can't imagine that he was a local."

The incident has made local businesses assess their own security, as Andrew Alexander, landlord of The White Hart said: "It is shocking that people are coming out and doing it.

"I know the owners (at the Spar), they are lovely and provide an excellent local service.

"It's shocked a lot of locals round here, and has made us think about our own security."

Detectives are still appealing for any witnesses to the incident to contact police.

Detective Sergeant Nicky Jenkins, of Weymouth CID, said: "I am appealing for any witnesses to this incident to contact the police immediately.

"I am particularly keen to speak to a woman who was in the shop at the time of the offence who has not yet spoken to police.

"I appreciate this incident has caused concern for the village community and officers have been carrying out reassurance patrols in the area."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55180004174. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.