A shopworker was punched during a violent robbery in Sale.

Three masked thieves targeted The Co-operative on Washway Road in Sale, Trafford, at around10.15pm on October 28.

The masked trio, who were clad in balaclavas, burst into the store and forced two employees who into the back office.

Both were threatened with violence and told they would be stabbed, although no weapons were actually seen, before one of the members of staff was punched twice.

After stealing a small quantity of cash, the three men then fled through the fire exit at the back of the shop, onto Stanley Mount, before escaping out of sight.

The first man is described as being white, 5ft 9in tall and the second was said to be slightly taller at 6ft tall and also white. The third man was about 5ft 6in tall and he too was white. All three were wearing balaclavas and dark clothing. The third man had white writing on his top.

Detective Constable Dan Hayes said: "The victims were on duty, just trying to earn a living, when they were confronted by a gang of masked thieves who subjected them to violent threats and a physical attack.

"Luckily, neither suffered serious injuries but they have suffered emotional distress and had no idea whether or not the thieves would make good on their threats to stab them.

"It is unthinkable for the vast majority of us to be attacked in our place of work and shopworkers deserve the exact same protection so we need to find these men and bring them to justice, sending a message that such violence on shopworkers will not go unpunished.

"I would appeal to anyone who either witnessed these men going in or out of the shop, or perhaps suspects who may be involved, to call us."

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 856 7863 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.