MASKED thugs threatened staff and stole a large amount of cash during a raid on a Wirral bank before making off in a getaway car later found torched nearby.

The terrifying incident happened at 4.37pm yesterday, Wednesday at the Natwest Bank in the Cross, Neston.

Police believe the raid may be linked to a robbery at the same bank in November.

The three men, said to have Merseyside accents, got into the bank through the roof before forcing their way through a door.

After shouting at staff, they took cash tills containing a “substantial” amount of money.

Thankfully none of the staff were injured and no customers were present as the bank had already closed for the day.

They then fled the scene and a black Peugeot 308 was later found abandoned and on fire in nearby Mayfield Gardens.

An amount of money dropped by the suspects - described as wearing dark clothing and masks - has been recovered from the rear alleyway to the bank, among other items.

Items recovered from the scenes, CCTV, witnesses and forensics now form part of the overall investigation. 

DS Rob Grantham said: "I would like to reassure residents that we are working on a number of lines of enquiry.

"This is similar to a bank raid in Neston last November so we are looking at the possibility they are linked.

“I would urge anyone who saw any suspicious activity to contact police so that we can find those responsible and bring them to justice."

The bank is earmarked for closure in March.

Anyone with information should contact Cheshire Police on 101 quoting incident number 621 of 10 November 2014.

Alternatively information can be given anonymously Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.