Two robbers wore white horror film masks when they threatened a shopkeeper at gun point at an Edinburgh store.

The pair entered the shop on Colinton Mains Drive brandishing a handgun at 6.30pm on Saturday.

The pair hid their identities behind masks similar to those worn by the killer in the Hollywood Halloween films featuring the character of Michael Myers.

They made off with a three-figure sum of money and a bundle of cigarette packets before leaving the scene in a car parked outside on The Gallolee.

The vehicle was a small dark blue hatchback driven by a man described as white, in his mid 20s with tanned skin and short dark hair.

Lothian and Borders Police are investigating a positive line of inquiry.

A police spokesman said: "Fortunately the shop assistant was not injured in this incident, although he has been understandably shaken by the incident.

We are appealing for anyone who may have been in the Colinton Mains area yesterday, and who may have noticed a group of men acting suspiciously, to contact us.

"In addition we would ask anyone who recognises the description of the car driver to get in touch on 0131 311 3131."

Anyone with any information can contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131, or the charity Crimestoppers in complete confidence and anonymity on 0800 555 111.

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