DETECTIVES are hunting a well-organised gang who stole thousands of pounds from a Breightmet Post Office - by carrying off the safe.

Police believe the burglary at Top o' th' Brow Post Office on New Lane was the work of professional criminals, possibly from outside the area.

The burglary was discovered by the Post Mistress' son Sundpipe Patel when staff arrived for work on Saturday morning

It is believed the gang spent hours trying to get in. They disabled the alarm system, removed steel panels and used cutting equipment to get through a 10 inch thick door. The huge safe was discovered empty in the North Wales resort of Colwyn Bay last night.

Post Mistress Nirmala Narsai said: "Whoever did this, obviously knew what they were doing. It was a well planned burglary.

"I've been here seven years and this is the first bad experience I have had."

The post office will be closed for several days and people requiring giros to be cashed are advised to use an alternative office

Detective Chief Inspector Frank Ragget said: "We believe this the work of professionals. They spent a lot of time trying to get in."

He is appealing for anyone who has information to contact Bolton CID on 0161 872 5050.

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