DETECTIVES are hunting armed robbers who stole a large amount of cash during a post office raid.

The robbers, wearing balaclavas and brandishing baseball bats, forced their way into the Cleveland Street post office in Redcar.

They demanded money from terrified staff before fleeing with an unspecified amount of cash.

Police said post office staff were traumatised by Friday evening's raid.

Customers were turned away from the post office at the weekend and a notice in the window said it was closed due to unforeseen circumstances.

After the robbers escaped through the building's back door, they drove along Queen Street in a stolen black Honda Civic car.

About five minutes later, the vehicle was discovered on fire in the High Street West area of the town and police believe the robbers must have used another vehicle to leave the area.

Detective Inspector Colin Galloway, who is leading the investigation, said: "This was a daring raid on a quiet post office, which has left a number of staff traumatised by the incident.

"I would appeal to anyone who may have information in relation to the incident to contact the police."

He warned businesses to review security in the run-up to Christmas.

Det Insp Galloway said: "With this being the approach to the traditionally busy period, we'd like to remind all people and businesses that handle cash that now is a good time to review, and if necessary, improve existing security procedures."

Police are appealing for information from witnesses who were in the area of the post office and Queen Street at about 5.15pm on Friday.

They also want to talk to anyone who was in High Street West area where the getaway vehicle was found. Its registration number was RK02 OMF.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Redcar police on (01642) 302626, or Crimestoppers on (0800) 555111.