Knife-wielding robbers threatened a pub landlord in Tameside.

Four men walked into the Royal Oak pub, on Hurst Cross, Ashton-under-Lyne via a fire escape door at about 1.15am on Thursday.

They then forced open the door to the living quarters above the pub and confronted the bar manager and staff who were eating in a back room.

One of the robbers held a knife to the landlord's throat and demanded cash. The offenders then stole a quantity of cash and left.

A Black Ford Mondeo, registered 08', has been linked to the offence but forensic work is ongoing.

The victims were left shaken, but uninjured.

The offenders were wearing balaclavas. Three of them are described as being of medium build while the fourth was described as fat, all were wearing dark clothing.

Officers now want to hear from witnesses, and particularly anyone who may have seen the black Mondeo being driven round Ashton and Stalybridge, to call Tameside CID on 0161 856 9250 or independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

A 28-year-old man from Tameside was arrested on suspicion of robbery and released on bail pending further inquiries until February.