POLICE are hunting a gang of robbers who threatened two men with a sledgehammer outside a Wirral bank during a daylight raid.

Officers were called to the Yorkshire Bank on Princes Pavement in Birkenhead just after 1pm.

It followed reports that two men were depositing a large amount of cash at the rear of the bank when they were approached by a man, who is believed to have been holding a sledgehammer.

He threatened the pair before taking what has been described by police as a significant amount of money.

It is thought there were two or three offenders, who were wearing ski masks and dark-coloured clothing.

One of the offenders was wearing a florescent jacket.

The offenders set alight a 4x4 car at the scene. A Vauxhall Vectra involved in the incident was also found alight in nearby Dover Close.

Officers believe the offenders made off from that area but it is not known whether this was in a further vehicle or on foot.

The two victims were uninjured but have been left very distressed by the ordeal.

Crime Scene Investigators are in attendance and a thorough investigation is taking place.

The two burnt out cars have been recovered for forensic analysis.

Officers would appeal to anyone who witnessed anything or who has any information to contact 777 2263, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.