A GANG of robbers wearing balaclavas targeted a security van carrying cash to a Padiham bank.

Three men demanded cash from two security guards who were filling the cash machine at Santander in Burnley Road just before 8pm last night.

They then ran off down the side of the bank with a cash container believed to contain thousands of pounds.

The men drove off from the area in a silver Ford Mondeo, officers said. 

Following enquiries police later found a white Ford Transit van in Mill Street, which the robbers are believed to have travelled to the area in.

No weapons or violence were used and no one was injured.

Detectives are appealing for anyone with information about the raid, or either vehicle, to contact police on 101.

Det Sgt Allen Davies, of Burnley CID, said: “We have launched an investigation following a cash-in-transit robbery in Padiham.

“Three men have approached security guards demanding cash before making off from the scene.

“While no weapons were used or threats made, this was clearly a shocking incident for both victims and we need to find those responsible.

“We believe the men may have travelled to the area in a white van, which was later located on Mill Street, before later making off in a silver Mondeo.

“We are appealing to anyone who saw either vehicle, or witnessed the offence, to contact us.

“Furthermore, if you saw anything unusual or anyone acting suspiciously around the time of the offence, please call police."