THIS is the moment masked raiders barged into a Whitefield shop and threatened shopworkers with hammers.

Police have released the dramatic image, captured on CCTV, of the robbery at the G&E Spar shop in Ribble Drive on February 25.

Now, detectives are appealing for people to help identify the offenders featured in the picture.

Detective Constable Martin Brown, of Bury Police, said: "Two employees were confronted and threatened by the offenders, two of whom were armed with hammers.

"Thankfully, they weren't injured but to experience such an ordeal while trying to do your job would be traumatic for anyone.

"I would encourage anyone who recognises the men from the stills or knows anything about those responsible to get in touch."

The robbery took place around 9.30pm, when the gang ran inside the store and ordered a male member of staff to open the till and then put £1,000 cash into a white bin bag.

The raiders then emptied the cigarette display and stashed cigarettes worth £7,000 in the bag.

One gang member then attempted to enter a back room, but a female member of staff managed to get into the room and lock the door, preventing the raiders from accessing it.

The raiders then fled with their items on foot.

Store manager Colin Higson said afterwards: "Thankfully, no one was injured.

"The staff were brilliant and did everything you are supposed to do in such a horrible situation.

"It was a terrible thing to happen but both of them have showed resilience."

All four suspects are white, wore black clothing and black gloves. and had their faces covered.

Anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 856 8223/4540, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.