TWO armed masked raiders threatened an employee at a petrol station in Barrowford before tying him up and stealing around £8,000 in cash.

The man had been preparing for opening time at Barrowford Service Station, in Gisburn Road, shortly after 6.30am yesterday when he was confronted by two masked men on the forecourt.

Police have not named the member of staff but he is said to be in his 40s.

DI Tony Bolton, at Nelson CID, said: "They threatened him with a knife and baseball bat and took him inside the shop where they demanded money.

"They stole a number of items from the garage, including a quantity of money in the region of £8,000 from the last couple of day's takings and a quantity of cigarettes.

"They tied him up and he was there for around half an hour before he managed to hop out and was assisted by a paperboy.

"We don't want to go in to too much detail about the incident yet and risk giving away clues in case we get people coming forward with information.

He said the member of staff was 'distressed and quite upset' about the ordeal and was not likely to be back at work for a few days.

There was no one available to comment at the petrol station, which remained closed and sealed off with police tape until 1.30pm on Sunday.

Mr Bolton said the masked pair fled around the back of the garage towards to Gisburn Road. It is believed the raiders may have escaped in a getaway car.

He said: "Someone might have seen or heard something which they wouldn't automatically connect with the robbery, such as a car screeching off in Higherford or an abandoned car.

"Anyone who may recollect having seen or heard suspicious activity in that area at that time, particularly early risers such as milk men, should contact us straight away.

"We do not believe the general public are at risk.

"This was an isolated incident targeted solely at this petrol station."

If anyone has information they should contact Burnley Police Station on 01282 425001 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."