A member of a masked gang burst into a restaurant and threatened staff with a piece of wood.

Three balaclava-clad men escaped with cash after the armed robbery at Pizza Express, Prestwich.

And detectives have appealed for help in identifying the masked robber.

Staff were tidying up the restaurant, on Bury New Road, shortly before 11pm on December 19 last year, when three men who had entered through the kitchen ordered staff to lie on the floor.

Two of the men took hold of an 18-year-old waiter and forced him into the office area where the manager was working.

The men forced the manager to hand over a large quantity of cash which they stuffed into a plastic bag.

The third man raided a large glass which contained staff tips for the day.

All three men then left through the back door.

A red Toyota or Mazda car was seen driving across Bury New Road and on to Hilton Lane.

DC Tony Hope, of Whitefield CID, said: "This really was a terrifying incident for all of those involved. Although no-one was injured, everyone was left very shaken and upset by what had happened.

"Although a red car was seen near the restaurant immediately after the armed robbery, we do not know if the occupants were involved.

"We are asking the occupants to contact us as they may hold valuable information that could assist with the investigation."

Witnesses should contact Whitefield CID on 0161 856 4647.