Three overnight break-ins at village shops

There have been three overnight break-ins at village shops.

The community shop in Headley, Honesty café in Kingsclere and Swan Street Stores were broken into.

The Headley community shop, on Thornford Road, was broken into on Friday, May 12, at 1.08am.

Entry was made through a side window and the glass was smashed.

A Hampshire Constabulary spokesperson said: “Entry had been gained to the shop and a search made.

“Nothing has been reported stolen at this stage.

“Our enquiries are ongoing.

“Anyone with information on this incident can report it by calling 101, quoting the reference number 44230185993, or via the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary website.”

This isn’t the first time the shop has been faced with a break in.

Chair of the community shop Carol-Anne Rhatigan said: “Luckily, they came in through a side window which saves us money because last time they came through the front door and security shutters and it cost us a lot more.

“This time they tried to get into the post office but previous times they have never tried to do that.”

She said it was great to see a quick response from police who turned up within around eight minutes.

Honesty Café in Kingsclere was broken into on Sunday, May 7.

Its windows were smashed and valuable items were taken.

A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said: “We were called at 7.45am on May 7 with reports of a burglary overnight at Honesty Coffee Shop in Swan Street.

“A safe containing cash was stolen.

“Enquiries are ongoing.”

Store supervisor Mel said: “They smashed the windows and made their way in and took a few bits and pieces.

“My safe, my till and laptop got taken.”

Swan Street Stores was broken into on Tuesday, May 9, at 2am.

The owner said offenders stole cigarettes and spirits. He said police were called and are looking into the incident.