A MANHUNT has been launched for crowbar wielding robbers after a Co-op store in Southampton was targeted this week.

Three armed men stormed into the shop at around 6am on Sunday December 1, and demanded cash and valuable items as they threatened staff members with crowbars.

Although no one was injured, the thieves stole cash, cigarettes and alcohol before quickly leaving the premises on Warburton Road, Hightown.

A Hampshire Police spokesperson said: "We are investigating a report of a robbery at the Co-op store in Warburton Road, Southampton. It took place between 6.03am and 6.08am on Sunday December 1. It was reported that three men with crow bars entered the store and stole cigarettes, alcohol and cash. No injuries were reported and an investigation is now underway."

A Spokesperson for Co-op said: “Fortunately, no one was hurt, however colleagues were left very shaken. The store has since been re-opened to serve the community.

"Safety and security is our number one priority. Violence and crime is about much more than statistics, it is about its impact on people’s lives and the communities in which they live and work – as a community-based organisation we see the impact of social issues in our stores, and work closely with Police and other crime prevention bodies.

"We appeal for anyone who may have seen or heard anything to come forward to Police, who are investigating."

Anyone with information should call the police on 101, quoting the crime reference number 44190431877.

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where information can be left anonymously.