Attempted armed robbery at a shop in Milnrow

Detectives in Rochdale are appealing for information after an attempted armed robbery at a shop in Milnrow yesterday, Monday 31 October 2005.

The incident happened at approximately 6.30am. It is believed two men forced their way into the Tesco Express store at the Pennine Precinct in Milnrow.

The men are thought to have gained access to the back of the building. It is believed they went into the front of the store and confronted two members of staff, before binding their legs with tape.

The offenders demanded to see the manager and then rummaged around the store.

They left the scene in a dark-coloured Renault Laguna car. It is not thought that anything was stolen.

One of the offenders is thought to have been carrying a knife. They are both believed to have been wearing balaclavas. No-one was injured during the incident but the two employees were left very shaken.

A Renault Laguna was found abandoned on Todmorden Road in the Summit area of Littleborough at approximately 8am. The vehicle had been set on fire. It has been recovered and is being examined.

Detectives are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed any part of the incident at the store. They also wish to hear from anyone who saw the Laguna being abandoned or anything suspicious in the Summit area around 8am on Monday 31 October.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact CID at Rochdale on 0161 856 4646 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

A 20-year-old man from Rochdale has been arrested on suspicion of robbery. He remains in custody.