A village sub-post office was today closed for repairs after armed robbers threatened staff with a shotgun and crowbar.

Two men wearing balaclavas went into Anchorage Stores and Sub-Post Office, Dedham Road, Boxted, at 11.45am yesterday.

One robber pointed a sawn-off shotgun at the postmaster and threatened him. The other raider smashed a glass partition with a crowbar.

The raiders then made off with a quantity of cash in a dark blue Vauxhall Astra, which was later found abandoned a short distance away in Cage Lane.

Essex Police spokeswoman Helen Cook said: "The postmaster was working in the post office with his wife and there were two women customers in the shop. All are shocked but unhurt."

Both robbers are described as being about 5ft 10ins and in their 20s. One was heavily built and wore a blue and white lumber jacket and the other wore dark clothing. One carried a grey sack.

The raid is the third in the area since the beginning of December.

Det Sgt Roger Napier: "It is imperative that we catch these armed robbers before anyone is harmed."

Anyone with information should ring 01206 762212 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111

Shut - Boxted stores today.

Picture: SEANA HUGHES

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