STAFF at a Bacup shop were terrified when they were threatened by a man with a meat cleaver.

The incident happened in the town's Co-op when staff approached the man about a suspected shoplifting incident.

Det Constable Tony Hebb said: "No-one was injured but it must have been frightening and distressing to the member of staff."

The man was allowed to leave the shop and police were called.

They are now studying security camera footage of the incident which happened at 6.20pm on Wednesday.

The man walked into the shop as a customer and was seen to take two bottles of whisky from a display and conceal them in his clothing.

When he was challenged he produced the meat cleaver putting staff members in fear.

He was white, 5ft 7ins tall, slim, mid 20s with dark brown hair swept back.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Rossendale CID on 01706 237442 or contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

No-one at the store in Irwell Street was available for comment.

The shop is owned by United Norwest Co-operative Society.

Public relations spokesman David Short said: "This man was acting suspiciously and was asked to leave by a female supervisor.

"At that stage he produced a meat cleaver and made a hurried departure.

"It was a very distressing incident for our staff.

"Unfortunately this type of experience is becoming increasingly common."