MASKED raiders hit security guards with a hammer in a ‘vicious’ armed robbery in Burnley.

Police have launched a manhunt following the attack and said the men ‘were not afraid to use violence’. The robbers escaped from the Santander bank in Briercliffe Road with what police have said is a substantial amount of cash.

The attack, which happened at 11.30pm on Thursday, has left the community and local politicians shocked.

A resident on nearby Fraser Street said: “We were in bed. There was a bit of car door slamming, but nothing out of the ordinary. At that stage we didn’t get up because we thought it’s not that bad.

“Between 11.30pm and midnight I said to my husband there seems to be a bit of police activity. I looked out of the window and there were quite a lot of police and you could see the G4S van. The helicopter was also up.

“It looked like a targeted attack.”

Burnley councillor Arif Khan, who represents Queensgate, said: “This is my branch. It’s very shocking. Only last year they robbed the Barclays Bank in Colne Road. It’s really scary because I’m a local as well.

“I hope the police find the culprits and they are brought to justice.”

The G4S guards, who were making a cash delivery to the bank, were left shaken and bruised, but had no serious injuries.

Andy Cruickshank, director of risk for G4S’s cash business, said: “Our crews do a difficult job but they have the right to expect to return home safely at the end of their shift.

“I urge anyone with information that could help track down those responsible for this vicious attack to get in touch with Lancashire Police or report anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”

Police could not confirm whether the men, who ran off towards Fraser Street, managed to get into the building and were unsure whether vehicles were used.

DI Martin Melvin said: “This was a vicious robbery by offenders who were not afraid to use violence and it is fortunate that no-one was seriously hurt.

“I would appeal for anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area either yesterday or in the previous few days or who has any information to get in touch with us.”

Det Insp Melvin also requested any CCTV from the area, including Fraser Street, Mark Street, and Towneley Street.

The branch was open as usual to customers yesterday.

A spokesperson for Santander said: “We can confirm that there was an incident at the Santander branch in Briercliffe Road, Burnley.

“The police are investigating the incident. The branch is open as normal.”

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting log number 1679 of Thursday, August 27.