THREE armed robbers escaped with a 'substantial' amount of cash following a raid at a betting shop in Middleton.

Police said the men, one armed with a handgun and the other with a machete, shouted "get down" to customers at William Hill on Boarshaw Road shortly after 12.50pm yesterday.

The gang then forced a member of staff to open tills and a safe before they escaped in a silver car along Boarshaw Road.

Anyone with any information should call Middleton CID on 0161 856 1977 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.