CCTV footage of an attempted robbery in which masked man threatened shopkeepers at knifepoint has been released.

Two men wearing balaclavas burst into the Best Local shop on Firs Lane carrying large knives and demanded money from workers.

One of the staff members laughed at them thinking that the pair were joking before one of them jumped over the counted and swung a knife at his head.

The other worker grabbed a bottle of wine and threw it at the duo before the staff chased them out the store.

They then fled in a Fiat Punto.

The incident happened at around 11pm on Saturday, April 7.

Detective Constable Chris Waddicar of GMP’s Wigan borough, said: “The quick-thinking of the staff meant the two offenders left empty handed, with nothing but the knives they entered the shop with.

“We have released CCTV footage in the hope that someone can help our investigative team to identify who these two men are.

“As our enquiries continue, it is really important that we hear from people who may have seen the Fiat before or after the incident, or have information that could help our investigation.”

If you have any information contact the police on 0161 856 7292 quoting incident number 2,428 of April 7, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.