FOUR raiders stole cash and cigarettes from a Haslingden store and tied up two members of staff last night.

Police are appealing for information after the raid at the Co-op, in John Street, at around 10pm.

Detectives said four men, one armed with a crowbar, approached two members of staff who were closing the shop after the day’s trading.

They forced their way back into the shop and spent 15 minutes in there stealing around £1,000, more than 100 packets of cigarettes and the CCTV footage from the store.

Detective Inspector Jim Elston said: “The men threatened violence against the members of staff, who were left extremely shocked and distressed by what happened to them.

"They were bound prior to the offenders leaving with some form of tape from within the store.

“The staff were able to free themselves fairly quick and alerted police.”

The men were all wearing dark clothing with balaclavas and gloves, and were around 5ft 8ins tall.

The one carrying a crow bar was described as having a large, stocky build and being 20 to 30 years of age.

Mr Elston said: “I would appeal for anybody with information to contact us.

"Anybody who saw people acting suspiciously in or around the Co-op on Sunday evening.

“Particularly in the car park at the rear of the Co-op, the likelihood is they have been waiting in the vicinity.”

Anybody with information should call police on 01282 425001.