Young child hurt after armed robbery

A young child was injured as customers and staff fled from robbers in Rochdale.

Shortly after midday on Thursday 10 May 2012, three offenders in a stolen silver Ford Focus estate parked up outside the Co-Op on Grosvenor Street

Two of the robbers, one of who was armed with a machete, entered the store and threatened security staff who were making a cash delivery.

As staff and customers tried to escape a two-year-old boy was knocked to the floor. He suffered a bump to the head.

The robbers stole a large amount of cash and escaped in the getaway car, registration number Y544 DOB. The car has still not been recovered.

Both robbers were white and dressed in dark clothing with their faces covered.

The silver ford focus was stolen from the Moston Area of Manchester on Wednesday 2nd May 2012 at approximately 1700 hours. It is believed to have been driven around the Hallworth Road area of Crumpdall a short time after.

Detective Constable Ben Harris, said: “As you would expect, chaos ensued when these armed robbers entered the shop and as a result a young child was knocked to the ground and injured.

“Thankfully he was not seriously injured, but they and the others inside have been left shaken.

“We are working hard to identify the offenders and I want anyone with information, regardless of how insignificant you think it might be, to call me.

“This was a well timed and professional robbery and someone will know who is responsible. If you have overheard someone planning this raid or boasting about it, please get in touch.”

“We are also keen to speak to those who has information about the stolen vehicle and where it may be now.”

Anyone with information is asked to call Rochdale CID on 0161 856 4646, or Crimestoppers, anonymously, 0800 555 111.