THREE robbers burst into a Widnes newsagents and terrorised staff.

The men demanded money and a safe key from shop assistants in Simply Food and Drink in Moorfield Road, Halton View.

Two women were then grabbed by the offenders and marched into a back store room and thrown to the floor.

The raiders stole cigarettes and the till drawer containing cash before escaping along an alleyway to a dark coloured estate car parked in Elkan Road. They drove off towards Barrows Green Lane.

DC Andrew McIntyre said: "While the two shop assistants were not harmed, they were left shocked by their ordeal. I would urge anyone who has any information to contact me so that we can catch those responsible."

The robbery happened at 8.10pm on Tuesday, July 29.

The first offender is described as white and of large build. He was wearing a dark hooded top, grey jogging bottoms, grey trainers, black socks covering his hands with turquoise heel and to details. His face was partially covered by by his hood.

The second man is described as white, wearing a black Nike zip up jacket with the Nike logo on the left breast and light blue zipping. He had a grey top underneath and was wearing black trousers and dark trainers with white Adidas stripes. He wore pale blue gloves and a dark coloured face covering which had a light coloured emblem on the forehead.

The third man is described as white, possibly taller than six feet. He was wearing a black hooded jacket, a white cap, and white top underneath his jacket and dark coloured trousers. He also has black socks covering his hands which had yellow heel and toe detail.

Anyone with information is urged to call Cheshire Police on 101.