Terrifying raid on Rossendale post office

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CUSTOMERS dived for cover as robbers smashed their way through a post office security screen during a “terrifying” raid.

Four men in balaclavas “took over” Helmshore Post Office at just after 11am yesterday.

They knocked one customer to the ground while others sought cover before throwing a heavy object through the security window.

The robbers then jumped over the counter and demanded cash from fearful staff, punching one female cashier in the side.

After failing to gain access to the safe they grabbed cash from the tills before running to a getaway car where a fifth man is believed to have been waiting.

An ambulance had to be called to treat the elderly man knocked over by the gang, who suffered minor injuries during the incident.

The car, a black Vauxhall Astra which had been stolen in Manchester, was later dumped off Holcombe Road, near Helmshore Textile Museum.

The shop was closed throughout the afternoon as police and forensic officers investigated and a detailed examination was also made of the car.

Detective Sergeant Nikki Bithell, of Rossendale Police, said: “It was all over very quickly, but these men came in and basically took over the shop.

“There were three customers inside and it looks like a couple of them have gone to ground of their own accord, but one man was knocked over and although he has been checked over and he’s OK, he was very shaken up.

“We’re not sure yet whether the two staff handed over the money or whether it was taken forcibly, but we are taking statements from everyone and making a thorough investigation.

“We are still not sure what the big object thrown through the window was, as it was taken by the robbers.

“It is lucky that no-one was injured, but everyone involved was very frightened.”

Detective Inspector Sion Hall, who is leading the investigation, added: “The men committed a robbery in broad daylight which was terrifying for those in the post office at the time.”

Neighbour Joan Smith, 51, of Helmshore Road, said: “It was only about three months ago that they got burgled there, they’ve had a real run of bad luck.

“I heard a noise but I was making a cup of tea so I didn’t look, and the next thing I heard was the police sirens. I’m just glad everyone’s OK.”

Tommy Fung, of next-door printing shop Orbital Creative, added: “You don’t expect something like that in broad daylight. We have been here a while and not heard of anything like this happening before. It’s a shame for the post office because it’s really well-used by the community.”

DS Bithell said the police would like to hear from anyone with information about the robbery.

She added: “We have had lots of people coming to talk to us outside the shop and wanting to know what is going on.

"Post offices are disappearing but this one is at the heart of the community and I hope that will spur people on to come forward with information.”

Anyone with any information should call Rossendale police on 0845 125 3545 or Crimestoppers confidentially on 0800 555111.