A GUARD was hit with a metal bar as a bungling robber snatched an empty cash box.

The raider pounced outside Sainsbury's supermarket, Hardman Way, Darwen, at 1pm yesterday before two Securitas staff had gone inside to collect cash.

He hit one of the guards on the chest and arm, grabbed the box and ran up Hardman Way where a getaway car was waiting.

The cash box was later found dumped on Goose House Lane, while the getaway car, a silver MG ZR, was abandoned in Ellenshaw Street. Officers believe a second car may have been used to complete the escape.

Police believe the robber thought the guards were delivering cash when they were in fact about to make a collection.

A red dye was released from the cash box by a security device which is activated when it is forced open.

Witnesses who saw anyone in the area covered in red dye are asked to get in touch with police and help officers piece together the robbers' movements after they abandoned the car.

It is not clear if the incident is linked to a similar raid at Morrisons in Blackburn last month.

Insp Graham Ashcroft said: "There is little doubt that these men and their car will be covered in red dye.

"The cash box was actually empty when it was stolen and I am sure this must have caused some dissatisfaction to the offenders.

"I am keen to hear from anyone who may have seen the car parked up in Darwen before the robbery and then whilst waiting in the Redearth estate for his

accomplice.

"We would also like to hear from anyone who saw the offence take place, or saw the man running with the box across the road."

The robber is described as white, in his 20s, about 5ft 2in tall, with short, fair hair and stocky. He was wearing a light-coloured jacket, dark tracksuit bottoms and white trainers.

Although Securitas officials were not available for comment, the guard was said to be extremely shaken by the robbery, but did not require hospital treatment.

Call Darwen police on 01254 51212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 with information.