AN arrest has been made after a man was suspected of robbing a bookies in Leigh armed with a hammer and wheel brace.

Detectives say a raider went into the Ladbrokes at the Spinning Gate shopping centre in Leigh at around 2.30pm on Saturday.

He seized stolen cash from staff and then fled, according to police.

Three members of the public were walking past and intervened, preventing him from escaping.

Detectives say a 34-year-old man is now being questioned on suspicion of robbery.

Det Insp John Davies said: "I would like to commend the brave actions of the passers-by who intervened to prevent the robbery.

"Thankfully there were no serious injuries but clearly given the weapons involved, this could have had much worse consequences."

Witnesses are still being urged to come forward and contact police on 0161 856 5307 or 101 quoting log number 1678 of January 11.