THREE men armed with a knife and a hammer fled empty handed after a terrifying raid on a Warrington bank.
The raiders burst into the Lloyds TSB bank in Honiton Square, Penketh,at around 5pm last night (Thursday) and threatened the lone member of staff.
They forced him to the floor and demanded the keys to the safe.
But the man managed to escape into a secure room within the bank from where he was able to contact the police.
The offenders fled the scene empty handed, in a silver coloured car.
Fortunately, the bank employee was not seriously injured although he did receive bruising and swelling to the ribs as a result of being pushed to the floor and was badly shaken.
Police are appealing for witnesses. They say one of the raiders was about 5ft 5 inches tall, dressed in black with a scarf concealing his face.
Another was about 5ft 9 inches tall, of slim build. The third was also dressed in dark clothing and of slim build.
Detectives are appealing for information from anyone in the area of Honiton Square at the time who may have witnessed the suspects or the car arriving or leaving the scene, or to anyone who has any information that may assist.
Anyone who can help should contact Detective Constable Carl Davis at Warrington CID on 0845 458 0000 or alternatively information can be left anonymously with Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.