TWO thieves wielding a hammer and an axe burst into a North-East shop and demanded money.

The men, both wearing balaclavas, were caught on CCTV as they threatened staff at Bells Stores, Thornaby, on Teesside, and left with cash and mobile phone cards.

Three female staff were left shaken, while an elderly lady customer was said to be "distraught" after the incident on Wednesday night.

The thieves were driving a C-registration Astra car, which had been stolen from Middlesbrough.

Police are appealing for witnesses to the incident, which happened at about 10pm on Wednesday night. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Constable Gareth White on (01642) 302226