ARMED robbers stole cash from an off licence — but notes blew away as they fled from the store.

Two raiders burst into Locals Off Licence and Newsagents in St Helens Road, Over Hulton, shortly before 10pm on Tuesday just as the store was about to close.

Armed with a hammer and a metal pipe, they demanded cash from the staff.

The pair, who were wearing dark clothing and had their faces covered, smashed the till and got away with several hundred pounds.

They ran out with the money in their hands — but it started blowing away down the street.

Owner Sudi Pallikulangra, who has been in charge of the shop a year, said he was now stepping up security in the shop.

He added: “Money had been taken out of the safe as we were about to close for the evening.

“They came in and threatened the staff. They smashed open the till and took the money.

“The robbers were scared and ran out of the shop with the money, they did not have a bag or anything to put it in.

“It was on the CCTV blowing down the street as they ran away.

“Nothing like this has ever happened before and it was quite scary for the staff. But fortunately no-one was hurt, that is the main thing.

“We are improving security and hope the police are able to catch them.”

Police are investigating the incident. No-one has been arrested.

Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 5740.