Police appeal after thieves break into Hermitage Co-op

Police are appealing for witnesses after the Hermitage Co-op was broken into in the early hours of this morning.

Four men used a Toyota Hilux truck, with the registration plated beginning with FE07, to ram-raid the store in Newbury Road, breaking the front door and window and damaging the low brick wall exterior.

The men left the shop in two vehicles, the Toyota Hilux and a car displaying registration plates beginning with RK07, heading towards Yattendon.

All of the offenders were wearing gloves and had their faces covered.

One offender was wearing a blue hoodie with letters on the front.

The incident took place at around 1.40am this morning (Monday).

Police have yet to confirm what was taken.

Thames Valley Police investigating officer Detective Sergeant Stuart Streeter, based at Newbury police station said: “I am appealing to anyone who witnessed or knows anything about this incident to please come forward.

“To report any information you can call 101 or make a report online, quoting reference 43220187709.

“Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website.”

This is the second time in three months that the shop has been broken into.

On the night of Monday, February 28, thieves targeted the store by forcing the front door and shutter open.

They then broke into two safes behind the tills, making off with a large quantity of cash.