Armed Crime Squad detectives are investigating an armed robbery on a gaming venue at the Blue Bell Hotel in Howitt Street, Wendouree.

Investigators have been told around 1am on Monday 30 March, two men wearing balaclavas forced entry to the hotel by smashing a glass panel on the rear entrance door.

Once inside the premises the men threatened hotel staff and patrons with a handgun and a wooden implement.

One of the men scaled the service counter and stole a quantity of cash whilst the second man kept a look out.

The men are believed to have fled into the rear car park of the hotel.

Detectives wish to speak with any patrons that were at the hotel that evening who may have left just prior to the armed robbery.

Detectives are also seeking information in relation to a dark coloured Chrysler 300 series sedan which was seen in the vicinity of the hotel prior to the armed robbery.

Police have released images of two men they believe can assist with their enquiries and an image of a similar vehicle.