Dramatic CCTV images of four men stealing a substantial amount of cash during a robbery at the Britannia Airport Hotel have been released by police.

Four men went into the hotel on Palatine Road at about 10pm on Thursday. Three of the gang jumped over the counter and into a back office.

The other member of the gang threatened a member of staff at knifepoint before escaping with the other men in a silver car thought to be a Volkswagen Passat.

The first thug is described as 5ft 8in tall, of slim, athletic build.

The second is described as Asian, in his mid 20s, of slim, athletic build, between 5ft 8in and 5ft 10in tall with black hair. He was wearing a navy hooded top and a black scarf over his face.

The third is described as Asian, in his early-mid 20s and 5ft 8in tall. He was wearing a light grey-hooded top, blue baggy jeans and had a black scarf covering his face.

The fourth is described as being in his mid 20s, 5ft 8in tall and of slim, athletic build. He was wearing a red-hooded top and had a black scarf covering his face.

A fifth man remained in the car during the incident.

Detective Constable Michael Zarb, from West Didsbury CID, said: "These men have deliberately targeted the hotel and used the threat of violence to steal a substantial amount of cash.

"Offenders such as these clearly have no regard for the their victims and those affected by their actions.

"I would appeal to anyone who may recognise the offenders from the CCTV, or who might have any information about the robbery to call police immediately.

"The getaway car was parked on Gibwood Road for a short time before the robbery. I would appeal to anyone who may have seen it there, or at anytime after the incident, to contact me.

"All information will be treated in strictest confidence."

Anyone with any information is asked to call West Didsbury CID on 0161 856 6153, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.