Five men were tied up by robbers carrying hammers and pick-axes during a terrifying break-in.

Four raiders smashed their way into a flat above Tapio’s Restaurant on Heywood Old Road in the early houses.

They tied up the men who were asleep in the flat and searched the premises, stealing cash, mobile phones and computers.

A black left-hand drive BMW with Czech registration plates 4T 82345 was also stolen.

The car was found burnt out on Griffe Lane, Unsworth, Bury a few hours later.

Police are now appealing for any witnesses who saw the incident, which happened between 4.45am and 5.25am on Saturday 27 February to come forward.

Detective Constable Michael Berger of Rochdale CID said: "We are looking for anyone who may have witnessed the men breaking in as they climbed onto the roof and managed to get in through a window. Also, the car they stole was quite distinctive given the European number plates and the fact it is left hand drive. If anyone saw this car after it was stolen, or saw the offenders set the car alight please get in touch."

The four men were all dressed in black and wearing black balaclavas.

Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 1976 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.