A PHARMACY owner has condemned robbers who terrified staff — and got away with just £20.

Three men, who wore scarves over their faces, burst into Deane Pharmacy in Wigan Road armed with metal bars shortly before closing time on Sunday evening.

One jumped over the counter and threatened staff, while another went through the counter’s gate and a third kept watch at the door.

One member of staff was in the back of the shop at the time and one, who was behind the counter, was told not to move.The robbers demanded money and staff gave them a cash tin.

Staff were said to be left shocked but were not injured during the incident, which happened at about 9.40pm.

Police are now appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information to contact them.n It is believed the gang fled the scene in a car.

Anant Patel, who owns the pharmacy with his wife, Jayshree, said: “At first it is very worrying and we are concerned about what happened, but then it begins to dawn on you how annoying and frustrating it is. They are callous and selfish individuals.

“We provide an important late night service for people over a widespread area. Things like this put all those people at risk, and staff who work so hard to provide this service. It is such a selfish and thoughtless act.

“We don’t keep cash on the premises, so there was very little to be gained from it.”

Det Insp Gary Smith, from Bolton CID, said: “Fortunately no-one was injured during this incident. The thieves got away with a small amount of money but we need to catch them.”

Anyone with information can call police on 0161 8562161 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.