Armed raid at Smethwick McDonald's

Four masked raiders armed with a crowbar and an axe robbed a packed McDonald's restaurant in Smethwick.

Terrified customers watched as the gang burst into the branch in Cape Hill at teatime last night.

The robbers forced their way into a back office while a cash collection was taking place. They threatened staff with the crowbar and axe before escaping with a large amount of cash.

Detectives believe the gang was loitering in the area for some time before pouncing at 5.15pm.

DC Simon Pittaway said today: "The nature of this robbery suggests that the offenders had been in the area some time before striking, as they quickly arrived at the scene just as the cash collection was being made.

"They had the nerve to enter a restaurant at teatime, when it would have been full of people.

"As a result, there must be several people who witnessed them arriving at the scene, the robbery taking place and then the offenders leaving the area. We urge them to come forward and tell us what they know to help with our investigation."

No-one was injured in the attack and the raiders are known to have used a small to medium sized black car, bearing false registration plates.

The robbers all wore scarves or bandanas across their faces and were wearing black jackets. McDonald's re-opened at 6am today.

Spokeswoman Lucy Aldington said: "No-one was hurt although we are offering our support to the staff who were affected by this incident.

"Security is of paramount importance and we are not able to provide further information on this incident, although we are co-operating fully with the police."

Anyone with information can call police on 0345 113 5000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.