The pair then shocked the employees by stealing the till and running out of the shop in Walton-le-Dale.

Police investigating the incident said the two women were left "very shaken up" by the theft at Bargain Booze in Chorley Road.

The attack took place on a Saturday night and police are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

DC Jim Skipper said: "Both offenders have been caught on CCTV and, although heavily disguised, we are releasing these images to see if any members of the public know who they are.

"Both female shop assistants were very shaken up and frightened by the ordeal.

"If anyone was in the vicinity at the time of the incident they may have seen the offenders running from the shop and be able to give us some information."

The incident took place on Saturday, March 31 at 9.41pm. Police said that the two unknown offenders entered the shop and "menacingly threatened" the shop assistants with what they believe to be a piece of wood.

One of the men then jumped over the counter, stealing the till containing in excess of £500.

Both men are about 5ft 8ins, although one is taller than the other. Both were dressed in black tracksuits with black balaclavas.

Anyone with any information can call Leyland CID on 01772 415946 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.