POLICE have released CCTV images after two teenagers robbed the Heaton Park branch of Sainsbury’s.

At 6am on August 8, two teenagers went into the Sainsbury’s on Heaton Park Road and went straight to the alcohol aisle and picked up two bottles of vodka.

They tried to leave the store with them but, when they were stopped and asked for ID, they put the bottles back.

Moments later they went back to the aisle and picked up the bottles and when they were stopped again and fight ensued between them and the security guard.

Three other teenagers, with their faces covered, then ran into the shop to help the offenders, and one of them was brandishing a knife.

All five fled the shop on foot and onto a nearby estate.

No-one was hurt during the incident.

Police have launched an investigation to trace the offenders and are appealing for witnesses.

The first is described as white about 5ft 2in tall, 15-16-years-old, and has short, blonde hair and was wearing a light-grey tracksuit.

The youth is described as white, 5ft3-4in tall 15-16-years-old, of slim build, with short hair and was also wearing a light-grey tracksuit.

The three who came to help with the fight are described as white, around 18-years-old and all had their faces covered.

Detective Sergeant David Elson said: "Whilst the victim was not injured he has been left very shaken by the incident.

"It was early in the morning but there may have been other people in the shop who saw what happened and I would ask that you contact police if you saw any of the teenagers.

“Please look closely at the CCTV images and get in touch if you recognise them or have any information.”

Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 3240, 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.