A man has been arrested in Dublin after an attempted armed robbery at Rush Post Office this morning.

Armed with what is believed to be a firearm and a hatchet, the would-be raider threatened staff and demanded money. He was wearing a balaclava.

He did not gain entry to the secure area. Nothing was stolen and he exited the Post office and fled in a red Ford Fiesta.

The incident happened at about 10.30am today.

Gardaí from Balbriggan stopped a red ford Fiesta afterwards on the M1 by and Swords.

A 30-year-old man was arrested and is being detained at Balbriggan garda station under the provisions of section 30 of the Offences Against the State Act.

During a search of the red Ford Fiesta a firearm and hatchet were recovered.

Investigations are on-going. Anyone with information is asked to contact Balbriggan garda station on 01 8020510, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any garda station.