Balaclava-clad men wielding a crowbar and knife threatened staff before stealing cigarettes from a Co-op store in Ipswich. 

The incident happened at about 9.10pm on Thursday at the shop in Clapgate Lane. 

Two men, who were both wearing balaclavas and hooded tops to obscure their faces, entered the store and threatened staff, Suffolk police said.

It was reported to Suffolk police that one man was carrying a crowbar, while the other had a knife.

The man carrying the crowbar went behind the counter and stole numerous products, including cigarettes.

The two men fled the scene on foot and are believed to have headed in the direction of Landseer Park. 

The staff members inside the shop were not hurt, Suffolk police confirmed.

The first suspect is described as wearing white or cream jogging bottoms, a large navy mac-style rain coat and tan ‘builders’ boots.

He was also carrying an orange carrier bag.

The second suspect is described as wearing navy jogging bottoms, a navy zip-up hoody with a white logo, tan ‘builders’ boots and one red glove and one light-coloured glove.

Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact Suffolk police, quoting reference number 22916/24.