Armed robbers hold post office in Up Holland after ramraiding window

Jan 17 2013 by Rob Pattinson, Skelmersdale Advertiser

Armed robberts hold post office in Up Holland after ramraiding window

THESE shocking images show the scene moments after armed robbers held up a post office after ram raiding the front of the store.

Police are appealing for information following the raid at the Hall Lane post office in Up Holland on Friday, January 11.

Officers were called to the scene at 5.40pm to reports it had been targeted as staff were re-filling the cash machine.

The raiders, believed to be four men, drove a black Vauxhall Corsa at the front of the building, through the shop window. They then threatened staff in the shop with what appeared to be a shot gun before grabbing a significant amount of cash and leaving the scene in the same car in the direction of Bridge Hall Drive.

The car was later found abandoned nearby, in Rivington Drive and detectives are appealing to anyone who may have any information to come forward.

It is believed at this stage that the offenders had stolen the car used in the robbery from nearby on Hall Lane immediately before the robbery.

Detective Sergeant Phil Bowerbank said, “Fortunately, none of the victims have been injured but understandably have been left extremely shaken by what can only be described as a terrifying ordeal.

“An investigation is underway and I would appeal to anybody that may have witnessed the car being stolen, the robbery or the offenders changing vehicles on Rivington Drive to contact police immediately. This robbery was clearly a pre-planned I so I would also appeal to anyone who may have seen anybody acting suspiciously in the area not only on the night but in the days leading up to the robbery to come forward and speak with police – any piece of information, no matter how small could be crucial to the investigation so please come forward if you think you can help.”

It is the second time the post office has been subject to an armed raid within just over year .

In November 2011 a 61-year-old was shot in the leg. Police confirmed no-one has yet been convicted in relation to the previous robbery.

Anyone with any information should call Police on 101.