GUN thugs targeted bookmakers and a petrol station shop during three terrifying robberies that happened within the space of an hour.

The two crooks, with Liverpool accents, struck first at William Hill bookmakers in Jubits Lane, Sutton Manor, at about 3.30pm on Friday (September 12), where they threatened staff with a pistol and ordered them to hand over cash.

But their demands proved unsuccessful and within half an hour it is suspected the same duo then moved on to Texaco Garage on Warrington Road where they again threatened staff at gunpoint and on this occasion fled with cash.

Fifteen minutes later, at about 4.15pm, Bet Fred bookmakers on Dane Court, Rainhill was targeted and the men again took cash.

Police say staff at all the businesses were left shaken up by the incidents, but nobody was injured.

Superintendent Peter Edge said: "We are determined to catch those responsible for these offences. I would urge any members of the public with information regarding these incidents to contact us.”

He said that officers have been reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing witnesses as they hunt the offenders, adding:” We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who saw a white Transit van driving at the times of these incidents in the locations at the junctions of Old Lane, Warrington Road and Stony Lane.

“There would have been many people around at this time of the day who may have important information which would help us with our enquiries."

The first robber is described as being in his late teens, of slight build and 5ft 8ins tall. He was wearing a blue waterproof jacket with a distinctive reflective strip at the bottom and dark trousers.

The second was wearing a green waterproof jacket with a distinctive strip at the bottom, dark trousers and white trainers. Both offenders had their faces covered with scarves. Both males had Liverpool accent, one described as having a stronger accent than the other.

Anyone who witnessed the robberies, or has any information is asked to contact St Helens CID on 0151 777 1577 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.