POLICE are appealing for help in tracing a gang who robbed a fashion boutique in Prestwich.

Three men threatened mother and daughter Beverley and Bianca Sharples, who were working in the shop, with hammers at Passion in Bury New Road.

The offenders, of slim build and in their late teens, grabbed a Rolex watch on display worth £10,000, a designer dress and £100 in cash shortly after 5pm on Saturday, July 3.

They drove away in a gold- coloured Mini, which was found burnt out two miles away in Whit Lane, Lower Broughton.

Police believe the car might have travelled along nearby Hilton Lane and past Agecroft Cemetery before being dumped.

Mr Alec Sharples, husband of Beverley and father of Bianca, said: “Three lads came in and were trying to have a laugh with the ladies and then they pulled out hammers from behind their backs.

“They grabbed the dress, the watch and £100, but as soon as the ladies told them the shop had CCTV and began to wrestle with them, they ran off.

“It shows how cowardly they are. We will not be driven out by these thugs.”

Det Con Andrew Pidd, of Bury CID, said: “These men were armed and have stolen cash and an extremely valuable watch.

“If anyone has any information about those involved or has been approached with a view to buying the watch, please get in touch.”

Bury CID can be called on 0161 856 8248, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

* Sisters Chloe and Bianca Sharples set up Passion in November, 2007, in memory of their brother Alec (who died suddenly at the age of 32).