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Sledgehammer attack terrifies staff as masked robbers smash into Bolton bookies in broad daylight for cash

By Danielle Wainwright

Armed with a sledgehammer and a knife, two men robbed a bookmakers in Bolton yesterday before escaping on a motorbike with the cash.

The men walked into BetFred on Halliwell Road Just before 3pm yesterday wearing motorbike crash helmets and approached the counter.

One of the men then smashed the glass partition with the sledgehammer causing staff to run into the back office as the offenders broke into the till and took the money.

Detective Sergeant Rob Parker from Bolton CID said: “Fortunately no one was injured and staff had the presence of mind to protect themselves. 

“However, they have been left terrified as one of the men had a sledgehammer and the other a kitchen knife.”

Police are now appealing for witnesses as the thieves escaped on a silver or white motorbike and drove toward the Hill Top area.

The men are described as wearing dark clothing, in their 20s, between 5ft 6in and 5ft 8in tall.  One wore a black and red helmet and the other a black helmet.  At least one spoke with a local accent.

DS Parker said: “This robbery took place in broad daylight and we believe someone would have seen these men walk in to the shop and ride off on the bike.  If you did, please get in touch with police as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information should phone police on 0161 856 5761 or Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.

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