A LARGE gang of armed, hooded men raided a York bookmakers and threatened two staff in front of customers before stealing a substantial amount of cash.

Police have condemned those responsible as "a danger" to the community, and are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Detective Sergeant Steve Smith, of York CID, said between 12 and 20 men had targeted the Tote bookmakers at Crichton Avenue, in Clifton.

"They had a weapon - what appeared to be a knife - but no one was attacked," he said. "Threats were made. It was a very nasty incident.

"If they walked into a shop like that, threatened people and behaved in such a fashion, they are certainly a threat to people."

Those in the group may have been in their late teens to early 20s, and were wearing their hoods up on hooded jackets along with casual sports clothing.

DS Smith, who is leading the investigation, said: "We are trying to get an appeal out for information, to touch the right nerve. We would appreciate any information from anyone in the Crichton Avenue area at that time who saw anything or had any knowledge of the incident.

"There were certainly customers in the shop at the time the group came in. We would like them to come forward. They may have useful information for us. If people know things, but would rather not get formally involved, they can give us information in confidence and we will respect that."

The officer said he was not aware of the raid forming a pattern with other incidents, but said: "Once they start, it can quickly develop."

No damage was caused to the property.

A worker at the nearby newsagents said she had heard there was trouble at Tote Bookmakers, but had not seen anything. Anyone with information should phone York Police on 0845 6060247.

Police are also looking into a knifepoint robbery when two teenage males were targeted on the river bank by the Museum Gardens, close to Lendal Bridge, York, at 4pm on Tuesday.

PC Hamish Halloway said they were approached from behind by three teenagers, aged about 15 to 16. One of the friends was punched on the back of his head, before the group produced a small hunting knife. The two friends handed over £6. As the offenders then walked away, one grabbed a carrier bag containing Christmas presents from the 17-year-old student. The offenders were all white, aged 15 to 16.

Updated: 10:00 Thursday, December 23, 2004