AN airgun was recovered after an alleged attempted armed robbery at an off licence in Nelson.

Veronica Bracewell, proprietor of the shop in Ethersall Road was working in the shop shortly after 6.20pm on Saturday when she was confronted by a man who demanded money.

Insp Steve Baines said that even though the demand was reinforced with a handgun Mrs Bracewell refused to hand over an money and the offender fled from the shop.

Mrs Bracewell alerted police and a search was made of the area.

Early yesterday a 16-year-old youth from the Nelson area was arrested and charged with attempted robbery.

He was appearing before Pennine magistrates at Burnley today.

Insp Baines said an air powered gun was recovered.