AN armed robber threatened a security guard at gunpoint in broad daylight before escaping with thousands of pounds in cash.

Detectives are ­investigating after the man, who was wearing a black ski mask with black trousers and anorak, struck at around 8.50am as the ­security officer was outside Scotmid in Old Edinburgh Road, Uddingston.

The thief made off in a black Vauxhall Astra which was later found, on fire, in Market Place in Uddingston.

Detective Inspector John Lamb, of Police Scotland, said: "We are carrying out extensive enquiries in the local area to establish more details on this crime. 

"Officers have been checking CCTV and carrying out door to door enquiries in the local area, and I would appeal to anyone who saw anything suspicious to come forward."