POLICE have released CCTV footage of a man committing a ‘terrifying’ attempted armed robbery at a takeaway.

He threatened staff who were behind the counter at a fish and chip shop on Leigh Road in Howe Bridge, Atherton, with what appeared to be a gun wrapped in a plastic bag.

After demanding that they opened the till the man attempted to draw another weapon from his pocket before fleeing the shop in the direction of Riley Street.

Detective sergeant David Johnston, of Greater Manchester Police's Wigan borough division, said: “I am appealing for information about this terrifying incident, which put these people’s safety in danger, all for petty cash from a till."

The incident happened at around 8.45pm on Saturday, February 11.

The raider is described as white, around 6ft and of a slim build.

He was wearing a blue jumper with a black hooded jacket underneath and had black material covering most of his face.

DS Johnson added: “If anyone recognises the man in the CCTV footage, or has any other information that may help us, then I urge you to get in touch.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 7292 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.