Bandits armed with cricket bats, hacksaw attempt to hold up Sydney 7/11

Cricket bat-wielding bandits have had their late-night hold up attempt foiled, after apparently being spooked by the sirens of a passing ambulance.

The three thieves, armed with cricket bats and a hacksaw, entered a 7/11 service station at Bankstown around 11pm (AEST) and attempted to hold it up.

However they left empty handed after the sound of a nearby ambulance siren spooked the trio and they fled.

Investigators brought in the Dog Squad to try and track the bandits down but the group escaped.

Police are still investigating.