ROBBERS armed with iron bars launched a raid on an armoured Post Office delivery van in Farnworth today.

Three masked men approached a Post Office security guard making a delivery at New Bury Post Office in Barton Road.

It is not thought the man was hurt. Police believe the raiders escaped empty-handed despite threatening him.

It is also believed they smashed the van's window in the hunt for cash.

They struck at 9am today - during the morning school run.

Post office staff activated security shutters after spotting the gang to stop them getting inside the building.

Police have now launched a full investigation. The post office remained closed today.

Maria Kirkman, owner of Little Voices Playgroup, in nearby George Street, said today: "Dozens of mums and dads were taking their children to school when it happened and anyone could have been hurt. It is absolutely terrible."

Another witness said: "I saw a black sports car and a white van with blue writing down the side racing away from the scene after it happened."

Police scenes of Crime officers were called and the area was cordoned off.

Detailed examinations of the scene and house-to-house enquiries were also expected to be conducted throughout today as police began their search for the raiders.

Police have confirmed no shots were fired and no one was injured.

A spokesman said: "No shots were fired and no firearms were seen although there were threats."

It is also believed police officers inside the nearby New Bury Housing and Community Office on an unrelated matter attempted to pursue the gang.

Bolton police said today the incident was part of a spate of recent attacks on Post Office security guards across Manchester.

It is the second Post Office robbery in Bolton this month. Masked raiders struck a security guard over the head with a claw hammer during a raid on Belmont Post Office on February 6. They escaped with a security bag containing excise licences and stamps.

Witnesses should contact police on 0161 872 5050 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.