Armed Robbery at Post Office in Middleton

Detectives in Middleton are appealing for witnesses following an armed robbery at a post office on Manchester Old Road on Monday 6 December 2004.

At approximately 5.30pm three men pulled up outside Rhodes Post Office in a dark coloured Ford Mondeo. Two men got out the car and one remained inside. The two men went into the post office through the front door and threatened the postmaster.

One of the men was armed with a handgun. They both went behind the counter and attempted to open the safe. They were unsuccessful in this attempt but managed to steal a substantial amount of money from the till drawer.

They left the post office and made off in the Ford Mondeo along Boardman Lane.

The first man is described as being approximately 5ft 8ins to 6ft tall and of slim to medium build. He was wearing black clothing, gloves and a ski mask. The second man is described as being 5ft 6ins tall, of slim build and was also wearing black clothing and a ski mask.

Detective Sergeant Derek Chadderton of Middleton CID said: "Thankfully there were no customers in the post office at the time and the postmaster was not injured. However she was left very shaken by the robbery. I would appeal to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who may have any information to contact CID on 0161 856 8745 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."