THE owner of a village bakery has told how terrified customers and staff were threatened by armed raiders in the third robbery at the shop in as many years.

THE owner of a village bakery has told how terrified customers and staff were threatened by armed raiders in the third robbery at the shop in as many years.

Staff caught up in the shocking attack at The Patisserie in Long Melford were too upset to speak about their ordeal but owner Henry Byham said everyone involved had been left traumatised.

Masked raiders brandishing a shotgun and baseball bat burst in and ordered workers to hand over takings and shoppers to give up their purses.

Police are now appealing for anyone with information about the balaclava-clad robbers, who villagers fear may have staked out the business in the hours before Thursday evening's attack, to come forward.

Mr Byham said no-one was hurt in the robbery but said: “The staff are very shaken by what has happened. Our primary concern is with our staff and customers but we will be looking at making further security improvements.

“It is still early days but I am sure all our customers will be wishing all of those involved the very best. It must have been a very traumatic experience but the staff have handled it very well.”

It is thought the three men involved escaped in a getaway car. One was described as wearing a black Puffa-style jacket with a white hood and dark tracksuit bottoms tucked into white socks.

Another wore a white Puffa-style coat, dark trousers and white trainers. The third wore a dark tracksuit with a white stripe down the sides of the trousers, which were tucked into white socks. All appeared to be of medium or stocky build.

Anybody who saw anything is urged to contact Babergh CID on 01473 613500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.