Masked robbers wielding a crowbar and knife threatened workers in a West Midlands shop before fleeing with cash.

The five-strong balaclava-clad gang stormed into the Co-op store in Thornhill Road, Streetly, also grabbing cigarettes and scratchcards.

The gang struck at 6.30am yesterday before making off in a black Audi A3.

The store was closed yesterday as police hunted for clues. Three women were working in the shop at the time and were left shaken but uninjured.

Staffordshire police spokesman Pete Bate said: “Five men, dressed in black and wearing balaclavas, entered the shop and stole cash, cigarettes and scratchcards.

“They were armed with items including a crowbar and a knife.

“The offenders left the scene in a black Audi A3 car which drove off along Thornhill Road towards Sutton Coldfield.”

Midcounties Co-operative today said the company was assisting police with inquiries and supporting the staff members involved.

Detectives want to speak to anyone who saw the robbery or saw the offenders in the area before the raid.