Armed robbery at Rochdale bookmakers

Thieves armed with a gun stole cash from a betting shop in Rochdale.

The robbery took place at the Ladbrokes shop on Tweedale Street at approximately 5.30pm on Monday (2 May 2011).

Two men went into the shop with their faces obscured. One of the thieves produced a silver handgun, while the other was armed with what is described as a stun gun.

The offenders threatened two female members of staff and demanded cash. After stealing a quantity of money, they fled.

The weapon was not fired and no-one was injured, but the cashiers were left extremely shaken.

The two men made off on foot out of the rear of the shop to a ginnel backing on to Tweedale Street. It is not known where they headed after that.

Police are now appealing to anyone who has information about what happened to come forward.

The thieves are both described as Asian men, around 19 or 20 years old.

The offender carrying the silver handgun is described as wearing a waist length white jacket with a bandana covering his nose and mouth. He is about 5ft 4in tall.

The offender that was carrying the stun gun is described as wearing a black top with the hood pulled up over his head and black clothing covering his nose and mouth. He is around 5ft 4in tall and has a deep voice.

Detective Constable Heidi Edge, of Rochdale CID, said: "The fact that these two men were prepared to each use a gun to intimidate staff shows they are a dangerous pair and we need to find them.

"This robbery happened at a busy time of day when there would have been lots of people in the area outside the shop. If anyone saw this duo either going into the shop or fleeing, it is vital we speak to you because your information could be crucial to our investigation."

Anyone with information is asked to call Rochdale CID on 0161 856 4591 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.