AN ARMED robber made several visits to a car showroom before attempting to steal a designer jeep at gunpoint, detectives have revealed.

The bogus customer tried to steal a Cherokee Jeep after taking it out on a test drive with a salesman.

And police have used detailed descriptions given by staff at a Blackburn garage to put together an artist's impression of the man they are looking for.

The armed robber told salesmen he wanted to buy the top of the range car and was taking it for a final drive when he threatened the salesman.

The mystery man produced what is believed to have been a gun and pointed at the 31-year-old salesman.

But the quick-thinking victim reversed the car into oncoming traffic and fled with the ignition keys.

The frightening incident took place around 6.30pm last Thursday in Pickup Bank, Darwen.

Police are keen to speak to anyone who was in the area and might have seen the gunman who fled in the direction of the Grane Road area.

Inspector Stuart Coates of Darwen police said: "Obviously this was a very traumatic incident for the salesman. We are anxious to speak to anyone who can help us with our investigation.

"If anyone recognises this person from the description they should contact us as soon as possible."

The robber claimed he was working at the new Virgin cinema complex in Preston and spoke with a local accent.

He was white, in his late 20s, had ginger stubble and was wearing a black cap, dark trousers and yellow and orange walking jacket and was carrying a red holdall.

Police have refused to reveal the name of the garage involved.

Anyone with information should ring Darwen police on 01254 701777.

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