Armed robbery in Middleton

Two men armed with guns robbed a betting shop in Middleton.

Just before 6.10pm on Friday 23 May police were called to the branch of William Hill on Boarshaw Road following reports of the robbery.

On arrival officers were told that one of the men stood at the door of the shop while the other approached the counter and pointed his gun at the member of staff behind the screen.

The robber demanded to be let in and, fearful for his safety the member of staff let him into the back office.

The robber continued to point the gun at the manager, demanding access to the safe, which he was granted. There was nothing there for him to steal however, so he kicked the manager in the legs.

Finally the robber, still pointing the gun at staff, stole some cash from the tills and ran away with his accomplice in the direction of Clough Road.

The man who threatened the staff is described as about 5ft 8in tall and mixed race. He had covered his face with a white mask. He was of slim build and was wearing a dark hooded top with his hood up. He was carrying a black pistol-type gun.

The other man was about the same height and was also wearing a dark hooded top with the hood up. He also had his face covered, and the victims could not tell what ethnicity he was. He was also of slim build and was carrying a similar gun.

Detective Constable Katrina Fitzsimons said: "This robbery was really frightening and has left the victims badly shook up - they thought they were going to be shot, all for a few quid.

"We've gathered evidence from the scene but need to know more about where these men went after the robbery. It was still daylight when it happened - did you see them running away?

"We are doing everything in our power to find these men, but we need your help. If you know anything please call."

Anyone with any information about this robbery is asked to contact Rochdale CID on 0161 856 4644 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.