Armed robbers stormed into an off-licence and stole about £400 from the cash register.

The two masked raiders, believed to be armed with baseball bats, struck at the Booze and News shop in Campbell Street, Farnworth.

They threatened the two female shop assistants, aged 19 and 20, and demanded cash.

They then went behind the counter to empty the till before fleeing in a dark red van, possibly an Escort model, which police believe was driven by a third raider after the raid, at about 8.30pm on Thursday DC Debbie Purtill, of Bolton CID, said: "This was a nasty robbery that has left the two young girls shocked and traumatised.

"We would appeal for people who think they may have seen anything to get in touch with us as soon as possible."

Both of the raiders were wearing balaclavas.

One was wearing a camoflage-style jacket. The other raider wore a black jacket with the red lettering on it. He also wore black tracksuit bottoms and Nike trainers.

Anybody with information is asked to call Bolton CID on 0161 856 5740 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.