Hammer-wielding robbers raid Witham Co-op

Balaclava-clad robbers armed with hammers stole a four-figure sum of cash from a store in Essex last night.

Two men wielding weapons entered the Co-op shop in Spa Road, Witham shortly after 9.30pm and demanded money.

The culprits left the store with a four-figure sum of cash in what was believed to have been a black double cab pick-up truck.

One man was described as being white, around 6ft tall and stocky. He was wearing a black balaclava and black Nike tracksuit with a solid white stripe down side. He was also wearing black gloves and black trainers with a white Nike tick.

The second man was described as being mixed race, around 6ft 3ins tall and skinny. He was wearing a grey Nike tracksuit with a hooded top, a black balaclava, black trainers and red gloves. He also had a shoulder bag.

Both men were described as having London accents.

No-one was injured during the robbery, police said.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Braintree Criminal Investigation Centre on 101, quoting reference 42/79572/18.

Alternatively, contact the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online.