POLICE have renewed an appeal for information on an armed robbery in Frizington - after revealing that four arrested in connection with the incident have been released without charge.

The robbery at the Post Office on Main Street happened at 6.15am on Wednesday, October 30 in which a female member of staff was threatened with a firearm.

The woman was shaken, but unharmed, and the robber escaped with some cash.

Three men (two 20-year-olds and one 23-year-old) were arrested in connection with the robbery and have now been eliminated from enquiries. A fourth man, 26, was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and has also been released.

Detective Chief Inspector Ian Harwood said: "This is an appalling crime against a lone female shop assistant who posed no threat whatsoever. The level of violence offered during this crime was absolutely cowardly and unnecessary. 

"The victim is well known in Frizington and fondly regarded in the community. My officers who have been conducting local enquiries in Frizington have heard nothing but absolute disgust about what happened even from those who sometimes or often brush with the law.

“Someone out there knows who is responsible for this robbery. I would urge anyone who knows anything about this crime to come forward. We need to get to the bottom of this for the victim's sake. 

"Following our extensive and ongoing enquiries, we believe we are close to tracing those responsible. This is a direct message to those involved in this crime, please see this as a chance to give yourself up and assist us with our enquiries.”

Anyone with any information can contact Cumbria Police on 101 and ask to be passed to the Operation Berry incident room. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.