Ram-raiders target Budgens in Mortimer

Burglars hit store during early hours of this morning (Friday)

RAM-RAIDERS have destroyed the front of a Mortimer supermarket during a burglary in the early hours of this morning (Friday, January 8).

The two offenders used a red 4x4 vehicle to smash their way into the Budgens store on Victoria Road between 3.30am and 4am before making off with a small amount of cash.

The theives entered the store and attempted to force entry to a tobacco kiosk but were unsuccessful. The offenders then drove away after taking a small amount of cash.

The offenders are described as wearing dark clothing and face coverings. No further description is currently available.

Store owner, Charles Mills, who was notified of the break-in through the store's alarms, said: “They have taken out the shop front and made a big mess.

“Fortunately nothing was taken – they tend to go for the high value items like cigarettes but we have them all locked up.”

“It just ends up being a lot of inconvenience both to us at the store but more importantly our customers.

However Mr Mills said he has been overwhelmed by the response from the local community adding: “We’re an independent business so we’re supported by the community.

“They have been amazing with their support and we’ve had plenty of kind messages shared on social media.

“They’ve all been really understanding while we’re closed.”

Investigating officer PC Robert Simpson- Jones, from Newbury Local CID, said: "I would like to speak to anyone who witnessed the incident or who saw a red 4x4 in the area at around the time of the incident.

"If anyone has any information which could assist with the investigation please contact police."

Anyone with any information about the incident should call 101 or alternatively contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

The store hopes to reopen this afternoon.

Photo taken by Ger Moran.