Cash and cigarettes taken in armed raid

Robbers armed with a hammer and bat terrorised staff at a Black Country convenience store, locking them in a broom cupboard before making off with their haul of cash and cigarettes.

Four members of staff at the Co-operative Food shop in Halesowen Road, Halesowen, were forced to open tills and the safe.

The three hooded raiders then ordered them into the broom cupboard. The raiders fled through a rear fire escape, taking a large amount of cash and a bag full of cigarettes.

The drama unfolded on Monday, about 9.25pm. Police appealed for anyone with information to call0345 113 5000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.