A POSTMASTER has spoken of the horrifying moment a robber hit a security guard with a claw hammer during a violent raid on his store.

The guard escaped unhurt when his security helmet took the blow when he was struck across the head outside Belmont Post Office in High Street, Belmont.

Three men escaped in a stolen with his security bag containing stamps and documents but no cash.

Village Postmaster Jim Smeaton, aged 53, said: "The men came into the shop carrying a hammer, they grabbed the security guard and all hell broke loose, they just turned up out of the blue.

"We've had the shop here for eight years and run the post office for the last five years and this is the first time something like this has happened. You can't let it get to you. We were careful before but we will certainly keep our eyes open from now on." Police have conducted detailed house-to-house inquiries.

The bag, which had emitted red security dye, was found dumped in New Chapel Lane, Horwich after the incident at 12.30pm on Tuesday.

The robbers fled in a stolen red-coloured BMW 325 Coupe - registration number of L353 RDN. It was later found abandoned in Little Hulton.

Det Sgt Ian Critchley of Darwen CID said today: "It was a frightening attack and he was fortunate not to be more seriously injured. We have had a few phone calls and continue to follow positive lines of enquiry."

Witnesses should contact police on 01254 353841.