This shocking footage shows the terrifying moment Co-Op staff were robbed at knifepoint by armed thieves as they locked up the store.

Footage captured by the store's CCTV shows three balaclava-clad men armed with weapons including a hammer and a kitchen knife storm the staff and force them inside.

Police said the men ordered staff to put a "significant amount" of cash and cigarettes into a duvet cover during the raid at 10.10pm on Saturday in Leyland, Lancs.

The robbers then instructed staff to reopen the doors and left, forcing staff to walk with them across a nearby park to ensure they did not call police before they could escape.

Detectives said that no staff member was injured but they were subjected to continued threats of violence.

They are now appealing for information on the suspects.

Lancashire Police said one suspect is described as being of stocky build, around 6ft tall and wearing all black clothing with a black ski mask.

He was also wearing red gardening style gloves and carried a brightly coloured, drawstring JD bag, the force said.

A second is of skinny build, with blonde hair and distinctive front teeth which are bucked to the side.

He was wearing a two-tone grey and black Under Armour top, grey tracksuit bottoms with white markings, green trainers and a black balaclava.

The third man is of an average build and height. He was wearing all black including a black Adidas sweatshirt, black gloves and a black balaclava.

No arrests have been made at this stage. Enquiries are very much ongoing.

Detectice Constable Laura Lawson, of Lancashire Police said: “This was a shocking incident committed against staff who were preparing to go home after a hard day’s work.

"Instead of being allowed to do that they were instead subjected to a terrifying robbery involving weapons and threats of violence. Fortunately, none of them were injured but they were understandably left extremely shaken.

“We understand that the public will rightly be appalled by this incident.

"We are now asking anybody with information or anyone who recognises the suspects in this case to contact police as soon as possible.

“Reassurance patrols have been increased in the area. If you have any concerns or you have any information which could assist our enquiries then please stop an officer and say hello.”