AN attempted armed robber terrorised staff and shoppers in a High Street store last night (Tuesday).

Armed officers raced to Tesco Express on Stevenage High Street at around 10.40pm after reports of a woman robbing the store at gunpoint. A police helicopter was also scrambled.

The High Street was shut off at 10.45pm and a 40-year-old Stevenage woman was arrested leaving the store at 11pm, police said. She is currently in custody.

Officers confirmed a handgun was recovered which is being examined by firearm experts.

Investigations are continuing.