Armed robbery in Middleton

Detectives are investigating an armed robbery at a Middleton store yesterday morning, Friday 19 October.

At about 7.50am two men went into Sunnys on Windermere Road. It is believed one of the men pointed a gun towards staff in the store while the other man stood in the doorway, armed with a Samurai style sword.

The first offender stole cash from the till, before both men ran off and got into a green Vauxhall Corsa which was being driven by a third offender. This car was found abandoned a short time later near to Throstle Hall Court.

The first offender is described as a white man and of medium build. He was dressed in black and had his face covered.

The second offender is described as a white man in his 20s and of medium build. He was wearing a grey hooded top and black tracksuit bottoms.

Detective Constable Joe Clarke from Rochdale CID said: "Coming face to face with a man armed with a gun must have been terrifying for the staff in the shop at the time. Thankfully they were not injured but they are clearly very shaken by what has taken place. I would appeal for anyone who saw these men arriving or leaving the shop, or who has any information about who is responsible for this robbery, to contact us and help with our investigation."

Anybody with any information about this incident is asked to contact Rochdale CID on 0161 856 4646 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.