POLICE are appealing for information after an armed robbery at a shop in Urmston.

Shortly before 10pm on Tuesday December 18 three men wearing balaclavas entered the One Stop on Stretford Road and starting demanding money.

As the shop assistant was handing over cash, the offenders – one of whom was armed with a knife and another with a hammer – made further demands for cigarettes.

After their demands had been met, the three of them attempted to leave the store but the door had been locked behind them.

Not willing to let this thwart their plan to get away, the offender carrying the hammer smashed the automatic door open and the trio fled the scene with cash and cigarettes.

Detectives investigating the case have now released CCTV footage of the incident in an attempt to identify the men responsible.

DC Amanda Tootill of GMP’s Trafford borough, said: “As you can tell by the CCTV, this incident must have been absolutely terrifying for the shop assistants who were going about their business when these three men stormed in and started making their demands.

“We have released this footage in the hope that somebody will be able to identify the men in the images and come forward.

“If you think you may be able to help this investigation then please get in touch. If you don’t feel comfortable coming directly to police, then you can also pass information anonymously to the independent charity, Crimestoppers.”

Anybody with information should contact police on 0161 856 7662 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.