FOUR men robbed the Co-op store in Mobberley, stealing cigarettes and alcohol after threatening staff with a hammer.

Police were called to the shop on Town Lane, Mobberley, at 10.20pm, on Wednesday last week, shortly after the raid.

Four men had entered the store – which also houses a Post Office – and told three members of staff to sit on the floor while they stole a large quantity of cigarettes and spirits.

Nobody was injured during the incident and the store was closed at the time of the robbery.

The men concealed their faces with balaclavas, ‘snoods’ and/or face scarves.

The gang fled in a vehicle, possibly a Renault or similar, which is believed to have been parked on the car park of the florist shop next door, and drove off towards Wilmslow, along Town Lane.

A spokesman for The Co-operative said: “On Wednesday, March 9 , at around 10.10pm, our Mobberley store was raided by four men. One of the men was armed with a hammer.

“A quantity of alcohol and cigarettes was stolen.

“As the store was closed, no customers were present at the time. The three members of staff who were working were unhurt but badly shaken.

“CCTV footage has been given to the police and we are reviewing security measures at the store.

“As with any incident such as this, we would appeal for anyone with information to come forward.”

Cheshire Police is asking any witnesses to the raid to call 0845 458 0000 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.