UNIONS have appealed to the government to do more to protect security personnel after another armed robbery on staff filling a cashpoint.

The raid at Tesco, Hill Street, Blackburn, was the latest in a string of similar robberies in East Lanc-ashire.

Thieves armed with machetes and golf clubs ambushed security workers as they put cash into the machine.

Three men followed two security workers into a small room behind the cashpoint where cash is dispensed before making off with more than £10,000.

One security worker for Group 4 Securicor was taken to hospital needing 12 stitches to his face after being hit with a golf club.

The robbers drove off in a silver Rover after the incident, which happened at about 9.45pm on Wednesday.

Shortly after the car was involved in a crash, outside the Holehouse pub, Burnley Road, and the car was later abandoned in Gorse Street.

The men ran off in the direction of the M65 and police believe they got into another vehicle before fleeing further from the scene.

Detective Inspector Andrea Barrow at Blackburn CID said: "This was a violent attack which has left the security workers in a state of shock. We would appeal to anyone with information to come forward.

"We particularly want to speak to anyone who saw either the car crash or as it was abandoned and the robbers' next movements."

Unions say the attack should be a reminder to the government to take action in preventing the rise in these types of crimes.

David Dickinson, chief executive of the British Security Industry Association, said: "Cash-in-transit robbery is on the increase and this attack is yet another reminder of the seriousness of this type of crime.

"The industry has invested considerable resources in technology, training and systems, but we can't do it alone and we are calling on the government, the police, local authorities, retailers and financial institutions to help us tackle this crime." Paul Kenny, GMB acting general secretary, said: "Every cash-in-transit attack has a human victim and we urge the government to devote more police resources to the issue to ensure that both employees and the public are safe and secure."

A spokesman for Securicor would only confirm that the incident had taken place and Tesco declined to comment.

Anyone with any information should contact Blackburn CID on 01254 353569 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.