TWO masked thugs burst into a bookmakers and threatened staff with a hammer and knife before fleeing with cash.

The offenders entered the Betfred shop on Westleigh Lane in Leigh at around 7.50pm on Monday, September 23 armed with the weapons.

They made threats to the workers and caused significant damage to the property before they left with a quantity of money.

Police have released CCTV images of two people following the incident, in which no-one was reported to have been hurt.

Leigh Journal:

One of the masked robbers

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Detective Constable Amelia Trimble of GMP’s Wigan District said: “This was a terrifying incident for staff to endure and while there were thankfully no injuries, it has had a considerable psychological impact.

“Do you recognise either of the people in these images? While the pictures aren’t of the clearest quality, their clothing is quite distinctive – particularly the trousers numbered ‘85’ and the bright top of the second individual.

“If you can assist our enquiries, please get in touch.”

If you have any information about the robbery contact police by on 0161 8565307 quoting incident number 2,936 of September 23 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.