SIX men were arrested in dawn raids following a robbery spree totalling £50,000 from bookmakers.

Police stormed eight addresses in Liverpool in connection with 41 raids across the north west, including one in Widnes and four in Warrington.

The men: one aged 35, two aged 22, two 21-year-olds and an 18-year-old, were arrested and are helping police with inquiries.

Det Con Dave Walsh investigating the North Cheshire crimes, said: "This is a joint operation between ourselves and Merseyside Police.

"The men are currently assisting officer over a series of robberies at bookmakers.

"The robberies at bookmakers threatened violence and we are keen to get those responsible of the streets."

A bookmakers in Derby Road was hit earlier this year and four were done in Warrington in April.

Members of the gang are expected before the courts in Liverpool next month.