Men arrested following Hungerford Arcade raid
The drama happened just before midnight on Saturday and two men were later arrested, thanks to the quick reaction of local residents.
The peace of the night was shattered when the raiders stove in the front window before smashing their way through Unit 49 and into the corridor.
They then made their way up to Unit 44a and managed to demolish the specially toughened glass cabinet before grabbing around £1,000 worth of jewellery, comprising mainly rings.
Co-owner of Hungerford Arcade, Adrian Gilmour, said: “Staff who were called out were shocked by the devastation before them.
“The road and pavement outside was strewn with glass but that was nothing compared to the scene that awaited them inside.”
The alarm was raised by nearby residents who had heard the break-in and the burglar alarms.
Thames Valley Police spokesman James Williams said: “We were called to a break-in at Hungerford Arcade in the High Street at 11.39pm on Saturday after a member of the public reported seeing a man leaving the premises with a black bag.
“Two men, both aged 25 and from Surrey, were arrested on suspicion of burglary and have been released on police bail until March 25.”
As a police forensic team got to work on Sunday morning, arcade staff set about clearing up the mess.
Mr Gilmour said: “It was a pretty desperate crime. They had to get through really thick glass and although it seems our internal security slowed them down and led to them being caught nearby, we’ve really learned a lesson from this unfortunate incident - security is going to be toughened up even more.
“We’d like to take this opportunity to thank the people of Hungerford High Street for their quick thinking and to the police for their speedy response and the enormous help they gave to us.”
He added: “We’d also like to apologise to our customers for the somewhat chaotic scene in the Arcade on Sunday and to thank them for their kindness and understanding.
“People in the High Street, and customers, too, have shown real community spirit either in helping to raise the alarm or in helping us tidy up.”
Anyone who witnessed anything suspicious and who has not yet spoken to detectives is encouraged to call Thames Valley Police using the 101 number.
Alternatively the Crimestoppers charity can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111.