Lancashire Police are investigating an attempted cash in transit robbery which took place at a petrol station in Blackburn on Wednesday October 5.

Police were called at about 7.30am to the Three Arches Service Station on Preston Old Road, to reports two offenders armed with a crowbar and a sledgehammer had attempted to gain access to an ATM machine as it was being replenished by security guards.

However, one of the security guards managed to grab his colleague and the pair were able to lock themselves inside the ATM housing.

The offenders made off from the scene empty-handed in a waiting car – a Mercedes A-class on cloned plates – which was being driven by a third offender.

The Mercedes – believed to have been stolen from an address in Altrincham last month – was found abandoned a short time later on Cherry Tree Lane, Blackburn.

It is believed on Cherry Tree Lane all three offenders transferred into a white Volkswagen Scirocco.

Detectives are now appealing for witnesses and would like to speak to anyone who saw either of the vehicles around the time of the incident, as well as anyone else with information.

Detective Sergeant Ian Procter said: “This morning two security guards were simply going about their work when they were subjected to what must have been terrifying ordeal.

“It is thanks to the quick-thinking of one of the guards, who saw what was happening, that the offenders were unable to make off with anything. Thankfully neither of the guards was hurt although they have both been left extremely shaken.

“We are now appealing for any information which could help us find those responsible. If you saw the incident, saw either of the cars around the time of the incident or have any other information about it, we would urge you to get in touch with us.”

The two men who attempted the robbery are described as being of average height and build and both wearing dark clothing and balaclavas.

Anybody with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting log number 175 of October 5. Alternatively independent charity Crimestoppers can be reached anonymously on 0800 555111 or at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

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