TWO armed thugs terrorised a bookmaker during a violent robbery yesterday afternoon. The two masked thieves burst into Ken Donegan Racing's shop on the Red Lion pub car park in Lowton, off the East Lancs Road, at 12.20pm.

One man was brandishing a hand gun, while his accomplice was wielding a hammer.

The gunman approached the counter and ordered bookmaker David Donegan, 27, to hand over money.

Police say a "small quantity" of cash was first handed over before the gunman forced his way behind the counter and held the gun to Mr Donegan's head, demanding more money.

Police are still not sure how the two men fled the scene and are urging witnesses to contact them, especially one customer who left the shop shortly before the armed raid. Det Insp Steve Baldwin of Leigh CID said: "As the man put the gun to the member of staff's head he was getting angrier and angrier. This was a very violent incident.

"Luckily the man is not injured but obviously it was a very frightening experience for him and he was badly shaken up."

Although both men were wearing balaclavas they are believed to be white. Both are about 5ft 8 ins tall and of slim build. One was wearing violet coloured shell-suit bottoms.

Anyone who can help is asked to contact Leigh CID on 0161-856 7240 or Crimestoppers on the freephone number 0800 555 111.

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