A CCTV video appeal has been launched after four masked men armed with batons stole a quantity of cigarettes from a cash and carry shop.

A black Renault Clio parked up at a car park outside Booker Wholesale on Leigh Road in Atherton with four men getting out with the weapons.

The car had turned right off Leigh Road having driven from the direction of Atherton.

They threatening staff before making off with Sterling Super King red brand cigarettes.

The incident happened on Monday, October 8 just after 4.10pm.

A video released by police shows the culprits getting out of the Clio.

Detective Constable Chris Waddicar of GMP’s Wigan Division said: “This was a brazen robbery in which staff members were threatened.

“Thankfully no-one was injured, but the psychological effect of crimes like this shouldn’t be underestimated.

“We’re following numerous lines of enquiry and now have released CCTV in the hope that members of the public may have information, or recognise the offenders.

“Perhaps you were in the area at the time, or maybe you have been offered this brand of cigarettes, or seen them for sale, under unusual circumstances.

“If you have any information, contact police immediately.”

If you have any information contact police on 0161 856 5307 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.