Police have issued a CCTV appeal after a terrifying armed robbery at a shop in Atherton on Christmas Eve.

Three men burst into an off-licence on Spa Road at around 7pm on December 24, officers said. One of them was armed with a gun.

The thugs threatened the terrified staff and stole cigarettes, tobacco and around £2,280 in cash. They then fled the scene.

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The staff in the shop were left 'shaken up' after the incident, but thankfully were left unhurt. No arrests have been made yet.

An investigation is underway, and detectives have today (January 13) released pictures of three men they want to speak to about the armed robbery. Anyone who recognises them is being urged to get in touch.

Detective Constable Phillip Kelley, of GMP’s Wigan division, said: "This was a frightening ordeal for staff members inside the shop and, despite there being no injuries as a result of the incident, it has understandably left those involved shaken up by the ordeal. No arrests have been made and extensive work is being done by investigators who are trawling through CCTV and speaking to witnesses.

"So far we have spoken to a number of people, and we are keen to ensure that everyone who was in the area on around the time, and who could have information, is spoken to – so if you haven’t already then please contact us. We urge anyone who recognises the men in the CCTV images or has information about the incident to speak to police."

Anyone with any information about this incident should contact police on 0161 856 3034 quoting 2403 24/12/22. Details can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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