A BALACLAVA-wearing gang left a garage forecourt empty handed after trying to steal an automated cash machine.

Around four or five men fled the scene, at the BP garage in Culcheth, when a member of the public disturbed them.

Police are investigating the attempted theft and appealing for witnesses to the incident that happened around 12.45am, on April 7.

The gang abandoned a blue Toyota truck on Eden Avenue, towards Leigh. Police believe that the truck may have been driven in convoy with other vehicles.

The truck is a pick-up vehicle with high suspension, large metal sidebars and front bull bars. The men covered their faces with Balaclavas and also wore black clothing and black boots.

Anyone who can help police should call PC Gordon Wilson on 01244 350000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.