EYEWITNESSES told how they watched three gun-toting robbers burst into a Suffolk post office today, before hearing loud bangs from inside.The balaclava-clad raiders demanded cash from workers at Haughley Post Office during the attempted robbery, which occurred just before 9.

EYEWITNESSES told how they watched three gun-toting robbers burst into a Suffolk post office today, before hearing loud bangs from inside.

The balaclava-clad raiders demanded cash from workers at Haughley Post Office during the attempted robbery, which occurred just before 9.55am.

However they fled the scene empty-handed, dumping their getaway car, a red Ford Sierra, in Dagworth Lane on the outskirts of the village near the A14 junction with Tothill services.

Detectives investigating the botched raid, believe the men swapped cars before driving off in the second vehicle.

No one was injured during the incident although two frightened female workers at the Old Street post office were forced to escape out the back of the store, when the gunmen told them to hand over money.

Sam Thorley, 14, and his mother Sue Thorley, 40, were among those who saw the trio burst into the store. They say they heard shots coming from inside.

Sam said: "I had a clear view of the post office and I heard six shots and then the alarm going off. I looked over and saw a man standing there with a gun that had a knife on the end.

"I could hear some smashing going on inside and the bloke outside saying 'hurry up, get the money'. I ran to call the police but by the time I had done that they had gone in a red Ford Sierra.

"I saw the two ladies working in the shop run out of the back as the men came in the front. I don't think they were hurt.

"After they had gone there was a lot of people who came out into the street to make sure the women were all right. I think a lot of people had called the police."

His mother Sue, said: "It is such a busy post office and you don't expect this sort of thing to happen here. The most important thing is that no one was hurt."

Her son Sam said the weapon being carried by the man standing on guard at the post office included a blade about 10 inches long. He described it as looking like a bayonet.

Eric The, 37, witnessed the aftermath of the attack and saw a red Ford Sierra speeding off.

He said: "I had heard some banging but I just assumed it was the bakery over the road unloading stock. Then I heard the alarm go off and then the car went past."

It is believed the engine of the getaway vehicle had been left running while the raid was carried out.

Scenes of crime officers were due at the post office and Dagworth Lane today to begin their forensic investigations.

Mike Nunn, a spokesman for Suffolk police, asked for anyone with information to come forward.

He said: "We would urge anyone who witnessed the incident, or with information about those involved to get in touch with the officers on this case.

"We are also keen to hear from anyone who saw the changeover of the cars and can provide details of what vehicle the offenders left in."

If you can help the police telephone 01284 774100 or Crimestoppers on freephone 0800 555111.