A SHOPKEEPER needed hospital treatment after he was viciously attacked during a terrifying armed robbery last week.

The incident happened at about 10pm on Thursday when three masked men brandishing knives, burst into Anderton Convenience Store in New Road, Anderton.

The occupants of the former post office, 59-year-old Norman Higgin and his wife Patricia, were sitting in their lounge when they were confronted by the men, who threatened to kill them and demanded cash.

Mr Higgin was kicked and punched by the attackers after he tried unsuccessfully to open the store safe, and was then locked into a small utility room with no windows, along with his wife, while they searched the rest of the house.

The couple managed to escape after using an axe which was in the room to chop through a thick fire door.

"The only thing going through my mind was sheer panic," said Mr Higgin. "We just did not know what they were going to do, it was like watching Crimewatch.

"One of the reasons why I gave the post office side up was because I had a feeling something like this would happen. Now, every time there's the slightest noise we're terrified.

"But local people have all rallied round and we are very grateful for their presents and good wishes."

A large amount of cigarettes and some money were taken during the raid, and the robbers escaped by stealing the couple's green Nissan Primera from their driveway.

Police are appealing for witnesses who may have seen the men getting out of the car, which was found abandoned 100 yards away close to a bridge by the canal. It is not yet known whether they got into another vehicle or ran away on foot.

All three men were wearing balaclavas and dark clothing, with Liverpool accents. Two were tall and slim, the third was shorter and stockier.

If you have any information which may be able to help police ring DS Nigel Groom on 01244 613234, or ring Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555111.