A SECURITY guard was punched in the face when four masked raiders stormed a petrol station.

The Asda security guard suffered bruising after he attempted to protect two women who work at the Birchwood petrol station.

The robbery happened at 8.40pm on Tuesday when a till was ripped out and cash stolen.

DS Ian Hampson said: "This was a violent incident that has left three people shaken."

Anyone with information should call DS Hampson on 01244 613831 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.