A MAN has been bailed in connection with a daylight armed robbery on a security van in the town centre.

A terrified security guard was threatened by three thugs wielding machetes and baseball bats before being chased along Fleece Street at around 10.40am on Thursday.

As he fled, he dropped a cash box containing around £2,000 in foreign currency.

The offenders grabbed the money and made off in a red Vauxhall Astra along School Lane before abandoning the car in St Albans Street, near Broadfield Park, and setting it on fire.

They then got into a silver or grey Peugeot or Corsa, which was driven away along Drake Street.

Detective Sergeant Sam Halligan from Rochdale CID said: "The red Astra was stolen from the Shaw area during a burglary on 29 April and I would be keen to hear from anyone that may have seen it in the past couple of months. Fortunately the security guard was not injured as a result of this robbery but he was understandably shaken by the ordeal and it is vital we catch these men. If anyone saw the robbery or has information about either of the cars used by the offenders I urge you to call me."

Two of the offenders were white and one was Asian. They were all dressed in black with balaclavas covering their faces. A 28-year-old man, who was arrested on suspicion of robbery and conspiracy to steal, has been bailed until 2 August pending further inquiries.

Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 8632 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.