POLICE have released CCTV images of suspects in a terrifying armed robbery where a shop worker attacked with a machete.

Detectives have released the images of the two balaclava wearing thugs responsible for the robbery, which occurred at about 8.45pm on Monday.

They attacked a shop worker - a 26-year-old man -with a machete, leaving him with a serious hand injury he is still in hospital receiving treatment for, at Halton's Top Store in Selby Road, Halton.

The males entered the store and started taking items, and when the victim tried to stop them he was struck twice with the machete, in the back and hand.

Detective Constable Samantha Wilson, of Leeds District CID, said: “This was an appalling incident where the victim was running to escape when he was slashed on his back, and then suffered the injury to his hand while defending himself.

“Although the suspects’ faces were masked, the CCTV images show the clothing they were wearing.

"We would like to hear from anyone who thinks they recognise them or who saw them in the area at any point before or after the incident.

“A number of vehicles passed the area around the time, and we would ask anyone with relevant dashcam footage to get in touch.”

Anyone with any information is asked to contact DC Wilson by calling 101 quoting crime reference 13210427933 or by using the live chat facility on the West Yorkshire Police website.

Information can be given anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.