A MAN is in a critical condition in hospital after an explosion during a robbery bid on an ATM.

Clydebank cops investigating the incident are following the line of enquiry that the 51-year-old injured man and another were attempting to steal at ATM at around 11.40pm on Thursday outside Premier Stores in Glasgow Road.

They were called to a report of an explosion and emergency services rushed to the scene.

The injured man was taken by ambulance to the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital for treatment. Medical staff describe his condition as critical.

Another man is understood to have ran off from the scene.

Extensive enquiries are underway to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

Detective Inspector Fiona Macarthur said: “Enquiries are at a very early stage to establish the full circumstances and officers are currently examining CCTV as well as speaking to local businesses and residents.

“One line of enquiry is that two men were attempting to steal the ATM and one of them has been injured in the process."

We previously reported how one witness said it sounded "like a firework going off”.

Locals also commented on social media websites about the incident.

Dani Dee said: "We passed it about 1am. Fire brigade on scene. All doors for Farmfoods open.

"I thought [it] was a fire as Farmfoods looked smoked out. It was dark mind you."

Another, Sarahjane McGonagle, added: "Is that what the noise was? What is this place coming to?"

Police officers monitored the taped-off area, while forensic tests were carried out.

Detective Inspector Macarthur added: “I would appeal to anyone who was in the area late last night and saw or heard anything suspicious to please get in touch.

“Anyone with information is asked to contact Clydebank CID via 101, quoting incident number 3825 of Thursday 11 January 2018. Alternatively you can call CRIMESTOPPERS on 0800 555 111 where details can be given in confidence.”