MASKED raiders stormed a pub and threatened the landlord in a terrifying late-night robbery.

Four men in balaclavas forced the landlord at the Beambridge Inn, Sampford Arundel, to open the door during the ordeal at around 1.30am on Saturday (December 21).

Police say the raiders stole a large amount of cash and ran to a red car - possibly a new model Vauxhall Astra - and went in the direction of the A38.

One suspect was described as having a stocky build, around 6' tall and with no discernable accent while another was described as slightly shorter and thinner.

A police spokesman said: “The robbery was reported to police and an investigation has begun to identify the people responsible.

“Anyone who knows the people responsible, saw people acting suspiciously in the area or saw the car leaving the scene should contact us.”

Anybody with information should call 101.