A GANG of robbers posed as police officers to raid a petrol station in Wilford.

They tied up a staff member and stole cash and tobacco while placing cones on the forecourt so they would not be disturbed.

Two of the gang were wearing police-style radios as they raided the BP garage, known as Silverdale Service Station, in Clifton Lane, Wilford.

It happened at around 10pm on Saturday March 6.

The bogus officers spoke to their 29-year-old victim on the garage forecourt before they ordered him into the shop.

Up to three other men then set up cones to trick passers by and motorists into thinking the petrol station was closed.

They also tried to break into a cash machine, but failed.

The gang then drove towards the A453 in the direction of Clifton with cash from the till and a large amount of cigarettes and tobacco.

Police want to trace a dark blue Jeep Cherokee and a silver estate vehicle, possibly a Skoda or BMW, that are thought to have been used in the raid.

The two robbers who entered the station are both described as white and aged early to mid 30s.

One was wearing a dark suit and the other wore a white shirt and a stab vest.

The other robbers were wearing fluorescent jackets and hard hats.

The victim was badly shaken by the attack and is being comforted at home by his family.

Det Sgt Neil Fountain of Notts Police said: "This appears to be a well-planned robbery, carried out by a group of men, who were intent on stealing cash and tobacco.

"The undoubted feature of this offence, is that the group deliberately deceived an employee, by pretending to be serving police officers.

"I would ask anyone who knows the offenders, or recognises the vehicles, to give the police a call immediately."

Anyone with information should call Notts Police on 0300 300 9999 and ask for the Meadows CID.

Alternatively call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.