DETECTIVES fear that seven air weapons stolen in a smash-and-grab raid at a Farnworth sports shop will be used by the raiders to commit further crimes.

The rifles and pistols were among a £6,000 haul - which included a large haul of clothing - stolen from Salter's Sports store at the weekend.

The raiders grabbed the weapons after tearing a locked cabinet off a wall.

The break-in, shortly after 3.30am on Saturday, was the second attack within a week at the store in Higher Market Street.

The BEN revealed at the weekend that the raids have threatened the future of the business.

The devastated owner, Mrs Joan Salter, said she is "absolutely gutted" and is now seriously considering whether or not to carry on.

The break-in on Saturday happened three days after would-be raiders failed to break through the metal security gates.

Police believe the same gang returned at the weekend and managed to break-in as the security shutters they damaged last week were being repaired.

Detectives want to speak to anyone who may have details about the robbery or may have seen anything suspicious in the area early on Saturday.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Farnworth CID or Crimestoppers on the free phone number 0800 555 111.

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