A THIEF stole a large sum of money from a safe after threatening customers and staff in betting shop.

The robber struck at Betfred betting shop in Manchester Road, Nelson, last night.

Police said the robber used force and a threat of violence to enable him to empty the safe and steal a large amount of money from the shop at around 7.30pm.

The police were contacted and they arrested a man from the second property they searched.

Police are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.

The man was taken to Burnley Police station for questioning.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 0845 1 25 35 45.