DETECTIVES are investigating a daring smash-and-grab raid at a bank in which a van was driven through a side wall at hig speed.

As three raiders clambered through the hole at the Royal Bank of Scotland in Bury Old Road, Prestwich, two accomplices armed with a machete and a sawn-off shotgun burst in through the front entrance.

After stealing an unknown quantity of cash, the five-strong gang sped off in a stolen car which was later abandoned.

The drama began at 2.35pm on Tuesday (Sept 25) when a stolen, flat-back Salford Council-owned Ford Transit van was reversed at high speed into the side wall of the bank.

Detective Sergeant Duncan Heywood said: "At the same time, two offenders smashed the front door of the bank and entered." Staff at the nearby Hyde and Partners estate agency activated their attack alarm as they saw the van crash into the wall.

A spokeswoman said: "I'm now frightened they may come back because I feel I could have disturbed them as my alarm was flashing and ringing.

"One of the men damaged the side door of the premises. He was obviously in a temper."

Det Sgt Heywood added that a motorist had stopped outside the bank when he saw what was happening but he fled when a raider smashed the back windscreen with the machete.

Officers say the five raiders escaped in a stolen Subaru Impreza, leaving the damaged Ford Transit at the scene.

Det Sgt Heywood continued: "The gang drove to Randlesham Street in Prestwich and the car was then set on fire. It is believed the offenders got into another car."

Detectives have appealed for anyone who witnessed the transfer to come forward. They also want to talk to anyone who has information about the stolen red Ford Transit.

No-one was injured in the robbery.

Anyone with information is asked to ring Det Con David Thorpe at Whitefield CID on 856 8243.