TWO workers at a corner shop were violently attacked during a robbery.

The thieves struck just before 8pm at the at the Walmsley Express News, Food and Wine Premier shop in Walmsley Street, Darwen.

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Police said two men threatened and later assaulted the two male workers after demanding the contents of the till.

Officers said the suspects had launched a 'sustained and violent' attack during the robbery.

One of the shop workers received injuries to his hand during the attack.

They are believed to have escaped with a small amount of cash.

Yesterday morning, customers at the small supermarket gave their best wishes to staff at the shop, in the Sudell area.

The shop assistants involved were not at the premises yesterday morning.

Lewis Sears, 24, lives nearby.

He said: "Everyone around here knows the lads who work in the shop.

"The shop is a big part of the community and well used.

"On Sunday night I heard there had been an incident there and ambulances and police were outside.

"There were a lot of rumours going round the neighbourhood but I'm glad nobody was seriously hurt."

A polices spokesman said: "Officers are investigating a robbery that took place on Sunday at about 7.50pm.

"This was a serious incident during which the shop assistant suffered injuries and at this stage it appears a small amount of money was stolen.

"Two men are believed to have fled from the scene."

DI Tim McDermott of East CID said: “Officers are progressing urgent enquiries to identify those responsible.

"This was a sustained and violent attack on a well-used local business at a potentially busy period of the evening.

"I would appeal for anyone with any information to contact us on 101 and quote log ref 1197 of the January 10."