Police are continuing to investigate a report of an armed robbery in Cowes, Isle of Wight.

Officers were called to Benzie yachting jewellers shop in the High Street, Cowes at approximately 3.15pm on Friday, July 3, 2009.

Police are investigating eyewitness reports of a firearm being brandished, but not fired, by a group of men who were also said to be carrying sledgehammers.

Two windows at the front of the shop were smashed. It’s estimated approximately 15 watches were stolen. A woman working inside the shop at the time of the robbery was threatened, but not injured.

The suspected robbers drove away from the scene along the one way Cowes High Street in a grey Range Rover Freelander.

Detectives are investigating the discovery of a car with a similar description, abandoned at the nearby Northwood House car park in Cowes.

Witnesses have told police three men left a Land Rover in Northwood House car park on Friday afternoon before driving away in a grey or silver Volkswagen.

 A police air and land search for the suspects and the Volkswagen is continuing this evening (Friday, July 3, 2009). Officers are carrying out checks and enquiries with Solent ferry operators.

Part of Cowes High Street outside the shop remains sealed off to allow for a forensic examination of the crime scene.

Detective Inspector Nick Heelan of Isle of Wight CID said: 

“This robbery took place on a busy afternoon in Cowes High Street. There were a considerable number of witnesses who are already giving statements to officers at Cowes Police Station this evening.

“I would like to thank the many members of the public who have come forward with information so far, and appeal to anyone who saw a group of men acting suspiciously in Cowes High Street between 2.30pm and 3.15pm on Friday (July 3) to contact detectives.”

Isle of Wight CID can be contacted by phoning 101 or 0845 045 45 45. Information can be given anonymously by calling the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555 111.