TERRIFIED customers were ordered to lie on the floor by two armed robbers who held up a DIY store.
Two men, one carrying a gun and the other a large spanner, burst into B&Q, at Swalwell, Gateshead.
Staff were forced to open a till and the crooks escaped with cash stuffed in a small holdall.
The robbery happened at about 6.45pm on Friday.
The first raider, who carried the firearm, was described as 5ft 9in, medium build, wearing dark clothing.
His accomplice was also 5ft 9in, medium build and wearing a black and white striped shirt. He was carrying the spanner and holdall. Both were wearing balaclavas and gloves
They ran off on foot in the direction of the Brunswick Shoe Warehouse.
Last night, a Northumbria Police spokesman said: "No one was injured in the robbery, but witnesses were shocked."
Anyone with information should call Gateshead West CID on 0191-454 7555.
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