TWO masked armed robbers brandishing a sawn-off shotgun and a baseball bat forced a licensee to lie on the floor while they stole £3,000.

The men burst into Whitworth Working Men's Club, in Market Street, Whitworth, at 11.30pm yesterday.

They issued threats to the licensee Barry Turner and ordered him and his friend to lie on the floor.

They then stole money from the till and safe while continuing to issue violent threats to the two men.

DS Nikki Bithell said: "Although Mr Turner and his friend were pushed and shoved they were not hit and not injured but were very frightened.

"It was all over in a matter of minutes and we are appealing for any witnesses to contact the police."

It is not know if the men, who were wearing black balaclavas had a vehicle.

The pub, formerly a club, has been targeted by armed robbers before.

In July 2000 the club steward was attacked and beaten by two masked men armed with hammers and a hockey stick as he was leaving the club.

In September of the same year Mr Turner had been counting the takings when masked robbers entered, attacked and beat him and left him bound with tape after stealing about £5,000.

Anyone who witnessed the incident can contact Rossendale CID on 01706 237442.