DETECTIVES investigating a robbery at a Co-op store in Hartlepool are appealing for businesses in the area to let them know if they have been asked to change large amounts of coins into notes.

Last Wednesday, two female shop assistants at the North-Eastern Co-op store in the town's Northgate were tied up and assaulted during a raid at the store.

The women were bound and gagged by two men who wore balaclavas.

They attacked the workers with a blunt instrument before stealing items from the store and a substantial amount of cash from the safe before making their escape.

The women were treated in hospital for cuts and bruises.

Anyone with information is asked to contact DI Oliver or Detective Inspector Bob Bussey on (01642) 302126.