ARMED robbers with guns held up a store twice in one weekend.

The co-op food store in Brownlow Way, Halliwell, was targeted by thieves on November 26 and 27.

Mother Danielle Thornton was in the store with her seven-year-old son the day of the first attack.

The 26-year-old, of Halliwell, said: “I didn't really know what was going on until the woman on the till started screaming 'he's got a gun, we're being robbed, quick he's got a gun'.

“She was shaking and really upset.

"I have never been in such a scary situation.

“My little boy was heartbroken and terrified.

“He's only seven so it was a huge shock for him.

“They quickly shut us in the shop and helped calmed him down.

“I couldn't thank all the staff there enough.”

Miss Thornton said the man, who was on his own, burst into the store with a gun.

It is understood that three men with guns raided the store the following day.

It is not known whether the incidents were linked.

The store was closed for a number of hours following the incident but later re-opened.

A spokesman for the Co-op, said “safety and security" was the of the company's "utmost importance”.

The spokesman added: “There were incidents in our Brownlow Way store last weekend where armed intruders entered the store.

“CCTV coverage has been shared with police, who are investigating.

“Fortunately, no one was hurt and we appeal for anyone with information to come forward.

“Safety and security is of the utmost importance, and we work closely with the police to implement security measures which not only deter criminal activity but also increase the likelihood of convictions.

“We apologise for any inconvenience while the store was closed temporarily to allow police to investigate, the store has now re-opened.”

Police confirmed the incidents occurred at 5.35pm, on November 26 and 9.25pm on November 27.

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 and quote reference number 1812 of November 26,2016 or 2305 of November 27, 2016.

Alternatively contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.