Masked hammer gang target BP garage

The raiders burst into the BP petrol station on Pedmore Road in Lye and demanded cash from the lone woman working behind the counter.

However, the men fled when the safe couldn't be opened.

Police are now investigating the raid which happened at around 9pm on Sunday.

West Midlands Police spokeswoman Sharn Braich said: "Police received calls on Sunday, October 9 at around 9pm following an attempted robbery of a BP garage on Pedmore Road, Lye.

"Three men armed with claw hammers and wearing balaclavas stormed the petrol station and demanded cash from the woman behind the counter.

"Police are investigating and inquiries are ongoing."

Councillors spoke of their shock at hearing the news.

Ward councillor and leader of Dudley Council Pete Lowe said: "It is disgraceful that people are going about work and then should be subjected to such mindless behaviour."

Lye and Stourbridge North Councillor Mohammed Hanif said: "I think it is awful to hear that anything like this has taken place. It is never good to hear such things have happened in any ward."

Our thoughts are of course with the people affected. We hope the police can bring these people to justice."

Last month armed raiders targeted two stores in Stourbridge stealing cash and hijacking a Ford Mondeo leaving customers and staff terrified.

The robbers made off with car whilst two women, aged aged 88 and 37, where still sitting in the back.

They were dumped further up the roadside after the gang realised they had unwanted passengers.

The robberies took place on September 4.

Two stores - the One Stop convenience store, on Hungary Hill and the Co-op in Glebe Lane, Norton - were targeted in the raid.

Police are still searching for the suspects.

Anyone with information should call 101.