Police have released CCTV images after two shop workers were robbed during an armed robbery in Leyland.



Around 10.00pm on Tuesday (March 20th) the employees were closing up the store on Dunkirk Lane, Leyland when two men carrying weapons approached them in the car park and forced them to unlock the door and let them back inside.



One man threatened the worker with an axe as he stole money from the safe. A second man was armed with a crowbar.



The thieves escaped the shop after stealing thousands of pounds. Neither of the staff members were hurt.



Police are urging anyone who witnessed the incident to make contact. DS Jerry Sturgess of Chorley CID, said: “Luckily no one was injured but both staff members have understandably been left extremely shaken by this ordeal.



“There is a likelihood these men will have been loitering around outside the store for some minutes before the attack. Did you see them? I am asking anyone with any information at all to come forward.”



The thief with the axe was white, aged 20 to 30 years old, around 5ft 6ins and of slim build. He was wearing dark clothing and a balaclava. The second man with the crowbar was of average build, around 5ft 11ins and was also wearing dark clothing and a balaclava.



Anyone with information can contact us on 101 quoting log reference 1494 of March 20th.



Alternatively, they can contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at Crimestoppers-uk.org.