MASKED men threatened a barman as he was cashing up before making off with £5,000.

The two men burst into a room where the man was counting the evening's takings at the Beehive pub in Horwich and demanded that he hand over the money.

They struck as the pub was being closed at 11.20pm on Saturday night.

No weapons were seen during the attack and the barman was left shaken but not injured.

It is thought the pair may have climbed up a fire escape before forcing a fire door which led to the office where the money was being counted.

After taking around £5,000 in notes and coins, the pair are thought to have sped off in a maroon coloured car which was seen driving along Chorley New Road towards Bolton.

Both the men were described as being in their early 20s, white, and of slim build.

They both wore black balaclavas, black clothing and black gloves.

Detectives today appealed for information. Det Insp Sara Wallwork, of Bolton CID, said: "Although the were no weapons used, this was a very distressing attack for the member of staff involved.

"It was fairly late at night but the pub is at a very busy junction and we would urge anybody who may have seen anything in the area to contact police as soon as possible."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Bolton CID on 0161 856 5740 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.