Police are appealing for a witness to come forward following a robbery at an Astley shop.

At about 10.30pm on Tuesday, February 24 three men armed with garden shears, a crowbar and an air rifle burst into the Co-op Late Shop on Manchester Road, Blackmoor.

The robbers threatened members of staff and forced their way behind the shop counter.

They stole the shop's entire stock of cigarettes, which they piled into a large white duvet cover.

One of the robbers also stole a member of staff's Prada handbag.

As the offenders ran away they passed a man who was entering the shop.

He is described as white, in his 30s or 40s, and was wearing a green cap, a dark jacket, blue jeans and a light blue top, and officers are keen to speak to him as he could have information vital to the investigation.

The robbers down the side of the shop on to North Lane and into adjoining fields.

Detective Constable Tommy Fung said: "All the members of staff were very badly shaken by this robbery, especially the woman whose handbag was stolen as it contained precious personal items.

"We don't have any good descriptions of the robbers, which is why we really need to speak to this man, as it's likely he got a good look at them.

"Any information we do receive can be treated in the strictest of confidence."

This man, or anyone who knows who he is, is asked to contact Wigan CID on 0161 856 7295 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.