An armed raid, attempted robbery and the discovery of a burnt out car in Aberdeen could be linked, say police.

Two men walked into Gaitside Stores in Gaitside Drive at about 7.15pm on Tuesday and threatened staff before running off empty-handed.

They were seen running off towards Garthdee Road on foot.

Both men were white men with local accents. One was tall and slim wearing a green jacket, dark trousers and black trainers. The other was short and slim and wearing a dark jacket.

At about 7.45pm on the same day, four men went into Stocket Parade Store in Stocket Parade, threatened staff and stole cash.

They were all in their late teens, early 20s and wearing dark clothing.

They ran off and it is thought they made their getaway by car. A grey Hyundai was found burnt out on Barvas Walk at 8.20pm.

Detective inspector Lee Jardine said: "The suspects threatened staff with weapons before running from the shop. We believe at this time that the suspects entered a nearby vehicle before making off.

"About 8.20pm, a grey Hyundai i30 registration MW60 FPE was discovered ablaze on Barvas Walk, Aberdeen, and we are currently investigating if these incidents are linked.

"This vehicle was previously stolen from an address on November 21, 2016."

Police are looking into the possibility the incidents are connected.

Detective sergeant Martyn Thomson said: "At this stage we are keeping an open mind as to whether this is linked to the robbery yesterday evening at Stocket Parade in Aberdeen."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101.