ARMED raiders threatened three women workers at a Bolton betting office with a gun and a knife.

The masked robbers burst into Paul Dean Ltd in Bury Road, Breightmet, just before closing time at about 4.50pm on Saturday.

They threatened the cashiers and forced them to hand over cash before escaping.

A small quantity of money was taken.

Police cordoned off the area while a forensic examination was carried out.

General manager Paul Dean said: "The staff were not physically injured but were very shaken up.

"They are long-standing members of staff who have worked for us for a long time.

"They were very shocked.

"In our industry, we do get targeted by such gangs from time to time, but I have managed this shop for 20 years and it has never happened to us before."

Detectives are now hunting for the gang and have appealed for anyone with information to call Bolton CID on 0161 856 5740 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.