Detectives today released dramatic images of an armed gang as they robbed a Bradford shop.

Police also issued an e-fit of one of the suspects involved in the vicious raid, during which a security van driver was struck with a metal bar.

The driver suffered minor injuries when he was hit as security staff were confronted by the gang, wielding iron bars and wearing bright orange high visibility clothing, outside the Co-op store, in Otley Road, Bradford, shortly before 9am on November 2.

An ATM cash machine was attacked by the gang, who then stole a cash box from the security staff, but it contained no money.

Now police have released CCTV images of the suspects as they carried out the robbery, as well as an e-fit of the getaway driver.

The dark-coloured vehicle was driven off at speed towards Yeadon.

Each of the suspects wore distinctive high visibility clothing.

Detective Constable Matthew Donohoe, of Bradford South CID, who is leading the investigation into the robbery, said: “A blue coloured vehicle was reported to have parked near the scene of this offence when it occurred and was described as making off at speed.

“The e-fit reflects the identity of the driver of this vehicle and it is important we quickly trace him as part of our inquiries.”

He added: “This was a terrifying experience for the security staff and I would urge anyone who has any knowledge about those responsible to come forward.

“We are also interested in hearing any details relating to the vehicle and its current location.

“Each piece of information we receive can lead us a step closer to making an arrest.

“If you can assist us in our investigations in any way, please call Crimestoppers, in confidence, on 0800 555 111, or contact us on the non-emergency number 101.”

The CCTV stills show two suspects going into the store. Both are hooded and wearing bright orange fluorescent jackets. One of them is carrying what appears to be a large black binliner or bag.

At the time, a resident told how he saw two men wearing high-visibility hooded jackets walking past his house and then shortly after running past the other way towards Peel Park and carrying a black holdall.