Police are appealing for witnesses after three men burst into a bank in Westhoughton.

Two masked men carrying a ladder walked into Barclays Bank on Market Street while a third man stood at the entrance holding a sawn off shotgun.

The staff activated the banks security measures and ran from behind the counter and locked themselves in the toilets. The two offenders propped the ladder up against the ceiling and pushed one of the ceiling tiles out of the way and climbed through the loft into the private part of the bank.

The men left empty handed through the enquiry counter door. They drove off in a black Honda CRV, which was found burnt out a short time later of Peel Street.

The offenders were dressed in dark clothing with their faces covered with balaclavas. The incident happened shortly after 11.50am today.

Detective Inspector Christopher Walker from Bolton, said: “There were a number of staff in the bank who have been left traumatised by these men and I am appealing for the publics help to identify them.

“The offenders left the empty handed, but have caused thousands of pounds worth of damage.

“Their getaway car was located close by on Peel Street and I am keen to speak to anyone who may have witnessed the offenders on Peel Street or saw them drive away from the bank.

“If you saw anything suspicious or have you have any information which may help with our enquires please get in touch.”

Anyone with information should call the police on 0161 856 5608 with any information or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.