Masked robbers snatch £4,000 haul

They ordered the Co-op workers to empty the safe and tills at Union Street, Harthill, on Saturday evening.

One member of staff was punched in the face during the incident and others were left shaken and distressed.

CCTV footage shows the trio fleeing the scene in what police officers believe is a silver Vauxhall Vectra, with a registration number similar to KD06 CDE.

It was driven away by a fourth offender, who went down Hard Lane before turning into Wales Road.

A police spokeswoman said: “There is evidence to suggest it was travelling at speed and officers believe it overtook a number of other cars on the road at that time.

“We are asking for public’s help in identifying this vehicle.”

The suspects all wore dark clothing and the cigarettes taken included Benson & Hedges and Richmond.

Anyone with useful information is asked to contact Det Sgt Peter Hodgson at South Yorkshire Police on 0114 2202020, quoting reference C/87664/2011.

Alternatively, members of the public can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.