A MAN has been shot today trying to help security staff under attack during an armed robbery in Essex. Essex police said the victim, who has not been named but is believed to be in his 20s, was seriously injured in the incident in Rayleigh.

A MAN has been shot today trying to help security staff under attack during an armed robbery in Essex.

Essex police said the victim, who has not been named but is believed to be in his 20s, was seriously injured in the incident in Rayleigh.

A spokesman said two robbers attacked two security guards loading a cash machine at the town's railway station shortly after 7am.

The man, who is thought to be local to the area and is believed to be in his 20s, was hurt when the robbers opened fire.

Officers are thought to be currently verifying reports that the man was shot after he intervened to help the security guards.

The two robbers left the scene in a white Ford Escort car which was later found abandoned. Officers think the pair may have used another vehicle after dumping the Escort.

Police have not said whether any cash was snatched during the raid and a spokesman said the security guards were not seriously hurt.