Police are appealing for information following an armed robbery where a sword and firearm were produced in the State’s Hunter region.

About 11.30pm yesterday (Thursday 10 November 2011), two males entered the club on Neath Street, Cessnock with their faces disguised by balaclavas. At this time the club was still open for trading and there were a number of patrons in the bar area.

The first man, who was armed with a sword, entered a room and removed a quantity of cash from a safe, while the second man with the firearm remained with the patrons. The two men then left in a red Subaru wagon that had been parked in front of the club.

Police from Central Hunter Local Area Command were contacted and are investigating the incident.

On their way to the scene, police found a vehicle ablaze on a fire trail near Comerford Close, Aberdale. This vehicle, which was reported stolen from Green Hills, is believed to be the vehicle used in the armed robbery.

Police would like to speak to two men they believe that may be able to assist with their investigation.

The first man is described as being 170cm tall, of a thin build, and was wearing a fluorescent yellow/green jacket, blue trousers, brown work style boots and a brown balaclava during the incident.

The second man is described as being 175cm tall, of a stocky build, and was wearing a brown/green long sleeved chequered shirt, black trousers, joggers and a grey/green balaclava at the time.

Police are appealing for any witnesses who have not yet spoken to investigators or anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.