Shocking CCTV footage has shown the moment a desperate robber used a National Lottery stand to try and smash screens in a post office in Oldham so he "could afford Christmas presents for his kids."
After failing to bash his way through, the robber climbed onto a counter and removed ceiling tiles so he could drop through to the other side where he stole some cash.
Police believe the incident was act of desperation as the criminal was overheard saying he could't afford presents for his kids and he "may as well do the Post Office."