THREE masked men armed with knives have robbed a petrol station.

It happened before 6.20am today at Wharrels Service Station, in Lowtown, Pudsey.

They threatened staff and forced them into a back room before stealing cash from the till.

Detectives believe a report at 6.28am of an attempt to steal a van making deliveries in Tong Drive, Farnley, is likely to be linked to the robbery.

A suspect got into the unlocked vehicle while the driver was making a delivery but found the driver had taken the keys with him. He left the scene in a black Volkswagen Sirocco, bearing a cloned registration FN12 CYS.

Detective Inspector Dave McDougal, of Leeds District CID, said: "We are carrying out extensive inquiries and are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the robbery of the attempted van theft or saw the black Sirocco anywhere in the area. That vehicle has not yet been recovered and we would like to hear from anyone who has seen that car abandoned or parked up anywhere."

Anyone with information should contact Leeds District CID via 101 quoting log number 261 of July 18 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.