At around 1.10am, two men forced their way into Shenanigans on Tithebarn Street, in possession of sledgehammers. They threatened a member of staff and swung the weapons, resulting in a minor arm injury.

The suspects were unable to gain access to the safe and only made off with a small amount of cash. 

They are believed to have got into a dark car parked outside, which drove off at speed onto Leeds Street.

CCTV, forensic and witness enquiries are ongoing.

Detective Inspector Graeme Towndrow said: “This would have been a shocking incident to witness, which resulted in fear and injury to the member of staff involved. To force your way into a business and make threats and attempt serious violence is desperate and despicable, and we are determined to find those responsonsible and put them before the courts.

“Whether you were passing by on foot or in a vehicle and saw or recorded anything, or work nearby and have CCTV, please check and let us know. This dark car sped off onto Leeds Street and we want to track it down, along with everyone involved.

“We work hard alongside all businesses in our community to ensure that people who look to cause fear, distress and loss to them and their customers are pursued and prosecuted, and will act on all information you provide.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact @MerPolCC, call 101 with reference 19100207436 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.