Police are appealing for help to find the men, who forced two female employees at the Total filling station, on Nottingham Road, to open the tills before stealing a quantity of cash.

Wearing dark clothing, gloves and Balaclava-style masks, the offenders entered the shop at around 9.10pm.

• Click play to watch CCTV footage of the robbery, provided by Nottinghamshire Police.

They took the cash and tried to grab cigarettes from behind the counter before running out of the shop and turning right into Mansfield Road.

Det Con Dan Holloway, of Mansfield CID, said: "The robbery lasted a matter of minutes, but even so, this was a terrifying experience for the women on duty.

"While the robbery was in progress, they managed to lock themselves in a secure room, which demonstrates just how frightened they were.

"We believe the suspects were hanging around the area for some time and we would urge anyone who saw them, either before or after the robbery, to get in touch with us immediately."

No weapons were seen or mentioned during the incident and there is no evidence that the men used a vehicle.

One of the offenders is described as over 6ft tall and thin. Another is described as 5ft 11ins and thin, while the third man is described as 5ft 8ins and of medium build.

Anyone who saw the men acting suspiciously or has any information about the robbery should contact Det Con Holloway on 01623 420999 ext. 3131. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.