FOUR armed robbers stole thousands of pounds from a Co-op yesterday. 

Armed with a crowbar and a hammer, the men went into the Co-op, on Abels Road, Halstead, at around 8pm. 

They forced staff to open the office safe and stole thousands of pounds before making of on foot. 

The men are described as wearing all black and had scarves over their faces.

A search of the area was carried out but the suspects could not be located.

No-one was injured. 

Detective Inspector Mark Cadd said: "This was a frightening incident for the members of staff involved.

"We are investigating whether or not this is linked to a series of other robberies in the Braintree district in recent months.

"Essex Police will not tolerate people causing fear and threatening violence, and we are confident we will find the people responsible.

"We believe the local community can play an important part in bringing these people to justice and I would urge anyone with any information about this incident or any others to come forward.”

One resident, who asked to remain anonymous, said: "The Post Office bit used to be closed off and secure.

"After the re-fit to save money they made the Post Office bit open, so it was asking to be hit. The shop has a massive history of robbers so it's shocking they should even consider making it open."

Anyone with information is asked to contact Braintree CID on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.