A man will appear in court today following the armed robbery of a fast food restaurant near Newcastle.

About 9.15am yesterday (Monday 13 August 2012), a man entered the restaurant on New England Highway, Hexham, and allegedly threatened staff with a firearm.

The man fled the scene with a sum of cash and police were alerted.

Officers attached to Central Hunter Local Area Command conducted a canvass of the area, with assistance from the Dog Unit and Polair, however were unsuccessful.

Following information received, police arrested a man at a home on Allendale Street, Beresfield, a short time later.

He was taken to Maitland Police Station where he was charged with robbery whilst armed with a prohibited weapon.

The firearm was later identified as being a replica.

He was refused bail to appear at Maitland Local Court today (Tuesday 14 August 2012).