WITNESSES are being sought after an attempted robbery at a jewellery store in central Taunton this afternoon, in which a 72 year-old man was injured.

A police spokesperson told the County Gazette: “I can confirm that at about 2.15pm a call was received by Avon and Somerset Police that there was an incident ongoing at the Showerings jewellery shop in St James Street, Taunton.

“Officers have attended at the address and it would appear that an attempted robbery has taken place, where two men forced their way into the property when the door had been held open for a customer.”

Police responded to the sounding of a personal attack alarm at the shop.

The men are said to have been wearing balaclavas.

The spokesperson continued: “During the incident nothing was stolen, but a 72 year-old man, believed to be a customer, not a member of staff, has received some injuries.

“When the two offenders were challenged by staff, they took off.”

Police are making inquiries, looking at CCTV, and speaking to witnesses.

Anyone who thinks they have information about the incident are asked to call the police incident number on 101, or Crimestoppers on 0800555111.