Armed robbery at Middleton store

An armed robbery took place a convenience store in Middleton yesterday (Tuesday 6 July 2010).

Two armed robbers, who were armed with a hammer and a black handgun, threatened a staff member and demanded cash from the till.

They fled with cash, drinks and cigarettes in a black rucksack.

It is thought they then got into a dark blue hatchback type car, possibly a Volkswagen Golf, which they had earlier parked on Oxford Drive and drove off onto Greenwood Drive and Boarshaw Lane.

The offenders are described as being white men, about 6ft tall and of medium build. They were wearing black hooded tops with the hoods up and scarves across their faces, black gloves and black tracksuit bottoms.

Detective Constable Amie Darnell of Rochdale CID, said: “These men have used weapons to threaten and put a shop assistant in fear of his life and put their freedom very much on the line for very little.

“I am keen to hear from anyone who saw the pair in and around the area at the time of the robbery or witnessed them fleeing in the car to call police.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Rochdale CID on 0161 856 4644, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.