AN ARMED robber fled a shop empty handed after staff triggered a silent alarm.

Police are appealing for information after a gun-wielding man attempted to rob the shop in Leigh.

At 6pm on Friday, October 7, officers were called to IB Local, in Wigan Road, Leigh, to reports of an armed robbery.

The offender entered the store holding a bag in his left hand and a black hand gun in his right.

He pointed the gun at staff and demanded cash, but left after staff, who triggered the silent alarm, did not hand any cash over.

The offender, who had a hooded top covering his face, then made off in the direction of the Royal Oak pub.

Detective Sergeant Neil Lawless, of GMP’s Wigan borough, said: “This was a cowardly crime and resulted in a terrifying ordeal that no employee should ever have to go through.

“I would like to praise the staff for their quick thinking in raising the silent alarm and standing firm in frightening circumstances.

“We are appealing to anyone with information to get in touch and help us bring this criminal to justice.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police by calling 101 and quoting the reference number 1804, or the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.