AN armed robber attacked a security guard with a hammer at HSBC in Astley Bridge.

The bank in Hill View Road was raided at about 2pm this afternoon.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing a man in a grey top,wearing a balaclava and carrying a cash box getting into the back seat of a silver Vauxhall Vectra, before it sped away. 

Greater Manchester Police Force Duty Inspector said: "A male offender attacked a security guard with a hammer causing an injury to his hand before making off with a cash box in a stolen vehicle.

"We are actively trying to track the cash box and the offender."

Police said the stolen vehicle was later found on fire in Thorns Road in Bolton. 

Paul Gorman, aged 45, who works for Asda as a trolley attendant, said: “It must have happened at about two o’clock because I started my shift at 12. 

“I saw a man in a grey top with a balaclava on carrying a cash box get in to the back of a silver Vauxhall Vectra and mount the curb and then skid off up Old Road. 

“I tried to catch the registration but it was too quick.”

Police are appealing for witnesses. Anyone with information should call them on 101.