TWO masked robbers wielding weapons burst into a supermarket before forcing terrified staff to hand over thousands of pounds of cash yesterday .Staff members were setting up for the day's trade in Budgens at Harleston, when the robbers walked in at around 8am.

TWO masked robbers wielding weapons burst into a supermarket before forcing terrified staff to hand over thousands of pounds of cash yesterday .

Staff members were setting up for the day's trade in Budgens at Harleston, when the robbers walked in at around 8am.

The two men, brandishing a metal bar and wooden stick, threatened the two staff members.

They were forced to hand over a substantial amount of cash - believed to be in the region of £15,000 - before the men then made off from the Bullock Fair Close store.

Both members of staff were uninjured but were left very shaken by their ordeal.

An investigation was launched yesterday and the store remained shut.

Customers were turned away at the door by members of staff and there was a sign pinned to the door declaring the store was closed due to unforeseen circumstances.

Scenes of crime officers were also at Budgens yesterday carrying out forensic tests. The two staff members were interviewed at Diss Police Station and then sent home to recover.

Det Sgt Arthur O'Neill, of Norwich CID, who is leading the investigation, said: "Though the members of staff did not require medical treatment, they were certainly left shaken by the experience."

He said the store was officially shut when the men burst in and that they escaped with thousands of pounds but said the final figure taken had not been tallied.

The offenders were both about 5ft 7ins tall and wore dark hooded tops, concealing their faces, possibly with balaclavas. One was carrying a small holdall-style bag.

The men would have made their escape in a vehicle and police are keen to hear from anyone who saw men fitting this description in a vehicle at the relevant times.

Anyone with information is asked to call Det Sgt O'Neill at Bethel Street CID on 01953 424242 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.