ARMED robbers raided a post office van collecting money from a Colne supermarket.

Two men are believed to have threatened a security guard with a handgun, near the parent and child area of the car park at Asda, shortly before 2pm yesterday.

They then escaped on a red motorbike with cash.

It is not yet known how much but police confirmed the amount ran into thousands of pounds.

The motorbike was found abandoned nearby and is now being examined.

Police are appealing for witnesses and have warned people not to approach the men because they may still be armed. One of the security guards was injured during the robbery but declined treatment from paramedics.

Officers said a firearm was mentioned by witnesses.

Shoppers were shocked by the violent crime.

Hayley Edmondson, 27, of Regent Street, Nelson, said: "There were police cars and an ambulance here when I arrived.

"I'm really shocked. I only live just down the road and it's a bit scary."

Asda store manager Neil Mallinson said he was relieved nobody was seriously injured and the store was helping police with their inquiries with CCTV footage.

He said: "I'm really grateful nobody was seriously hurt. One security guard had minor cuts to his arm but both are fit and well.

"It all happened very quickly. Our security were first on the scene and because of the security we have in place, the police response was excellent. I've been manager here four years and I've never seen anything like this."

A Post Office spokesman said: "I can confirm Post Office security staff who were performing a service at the Asda store were attacked and police are investigating."

A police spokesman said: "We would like to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the incident or seen the two men or their motorbike with the registration number S509 NRA.

"Officers believe the offenders may be armed so members of the public are urged not to approach them but to contact the police if they have any information on 01282 425001."