TWO robbers got away with a ‘substantial’ amount of cash after bursting into an Accrington bookmakers.

Two men, one dressed in a balaclava, struck at Paddy Power in Union Street as the two women members of staff were closing for the night.

One of the thieves grabbed a cashier by the neck and threatened her while demanding money.

The men were given some cash from the safe before running from the shop.

Detectives are now appealing for witnesses who were in Union Street on Friday night to come forward.

DS Julie Cross from Accrington CID said: “Fortunately, neither of the shop assistants were injured. However, they have understandably been left shaken by their ordeal.

“I would appeal to anyone who has any information about this to come forward.

“In particular, I would be keen to speak to anyone who saw anyone acting suspiciously in the Union Street area between 9pm and 10:20pm.”

One of the men has been described as being well built, around 5 ft 7 ins tall and possibly Asian.

He was wearing a black balaclava, dark clothing and gloves.

The second man has been described as white, of slim build, with piercing blue eyes. He was taller than the first man, around 5ft 9ins tall. He was wearing a dark hooded jacket and dark pants.

Paddy Power senior cashier Simon Widdowson said: “I don’t really want to say how much cash was taken but it was substantial. I have briefly spoken to the women that were working and they are understandably very shaken up.

“We have a real community here, it’s not something you would expect to happen.

“We have a great rapour with the customers, unlike big city stores, so it’s really hard to believe this could happen.

“I echo the appeal from the police. If anyone saw anything at all contact them so we can catch the people who did this.”

Anyone with any information should call police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.