Safe stolen in ram raid on Coin & Stamp Centre in Hungerford High Street on December 31
A safe was stolen during a ram raid on an independent Hungerford High Street business.
Police received a report of the raid on the Coin & Stamp Centre at 35a High Street at around 5am on Sunday, December 31.
The front door and window of the business – also known as Philatelic Heritage – were completely destroyed in the incident, leaving a pile of debris on the pavement.
A safe was taken during the raid.
Two cars parked outside of the Coin & Stamp Centre were also damaged as a result of the crime.
A Thames Valley Police spokesperson said: “An investigation is ongoing.
“Anyone with information can contact police by calling 101 or reporting online, quoting reference 43230582642.”
Since the owner of the centre posted about the incident on Facebook, there has been an outpouring and sympathy and support from Hungerford residents.
James Hill said: “To see this scene of utter devastation was absolutely heart-breaking—and no doubt it's incredibly upsetting for Nigel, his family and the members of staff, who have clearly worked tirelessly to create a beautifully presented pair of shops.
“My thoughts are with you, and I hope you're able to get the business up and running again.
“I urge you not to give up, or think about closing for good—otherwise the culprits have won.”
Some residents also criticised what they perceived to be a lack of policing in the West Berkshire town.
Suzanne Hill said: “Is our town lawless?
“The situation with crime in Hungerford just seems to worsen. So many businesses and even the Town Hall targeted by thieves.
“They seem brazen as there is so little chance of anyone catching them with no police station in the town or active presence.
“Just how bad does it have to get for us to demand proper policing?”
This is the second time the Coin & Stamp Centre has been ram raided in a little over two years, having last been targeted in September 2021.