A GANG of armed robbers wielding a sword and a metal bar stole £20,000 worth of cigarettes from a cash and carry store.

The three masked raiders swooped on the H and H Cash and Carry, in Newnham Street, Astley Bridge, at 5pm on Thursday.

Two members of the gang were carrying a sword and a metal bar.

The group shouted threats at the five members of staff who were working in the cash and carry at the time and then stole £20,000 worth of cigarettes in 500 packets, each containing 10 packs of 20 cigarettes before fleeing.

The haul included about six different brands of cigarettes.

The men were wearing balaclavas and gloves, then fled.

Police believe they may have had a car waiting for them.

Sgt Martin Bell, of Bolton's Robbery Unit, said: "Nobody was injured during this robbery but the staff were all very shaken up by their ordeal.

"The black market will now be flooded with cheap cigarettes and we would appeal to the public to get in touch with the police if they have any information that could help with the investigation."

Anyone with information should call Bolton CID on 0161 856 5740 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111.