Masked robbers jumped over the counter of a Ben Rhydding convenience store and threatened staff in a late-night raid.

The three masked men got away with cigarettes and cash after they struck at the Tesco Ilkley Esso Express store, Leeds Road, shortly before closing time last Thursday.

Police say nobody was hurt in the robbery, which took place at about 11.50pm, but they are appealing for witnesses to the incident and information on the getaway vehicle.

The store, which is open until midnight, is at a petrol filling station off the main A65 road through Ilkley, close to the junction with Wheatley Lane.

Police say the men entered the store, jumped over the staff counter and threatened staff workers, before fleeing with a quantity of cash and cigarettes.

Two members of staff and a customer were inside the store at the time and all were shaken, say police, although no-one was hurt.

Detective Inspector Neil Benstead of Bradford District CID, said: “This is clearly a serious offence which left both staff members inside the store very shaken. We are appealing to any witnesses to the offence or any information as to the men responsible.

“At this stage we are not able to say what vehicle was used by the suspects but the appeal is for information from anyone witnessing a vehicle leaving the scene.”

The suspects were described as three white males, all in grey or dark coloured tracksuit type clothing, with faces partially obscured by hoods which were pulled up. They also had balaclava type face coverings, possibly with bandanas over their lower faces, and were all wearing gloves.

One of the men was carrying a light brown canvas builder’s type sack with handles.

Anyone who has information is asked to contact Bradford CID on 101 or call the CrimeStoppers line anonymously on (0800) 555111.