Forensic police are on the scene after ram-raiders targeted a cash machine overnight, ripping down a canopy leaving rubble strewn across the ground.
Police are investigating the attempted burglary of an ATM at Tesco Express in Andrew Close, Shenley which was hit at around 1am this morning - and it is not the first time it has happened.
A yellow fork lift used in an attempt to steal the ATM was left at the scene which is now being guarded by the authorities and the car park has been closed to the public.
Hertfordshire Constabulary said no money was taken.
Remarkably, the Tesco store was not broken into and most of the glass and front remains intact.
But the canopy which runs alongside the parade of shops is hanging precariously and there is rubble outside the front of the store.
A member of staff was there this morning but the shop is not open.
Police have cordoned off the area.
Witnesses reported hearing loud noises at around 1am.
One man who had come to buy his newspaper said: "It is just stupid and disappointing that people can come and ruin the community like this.
"It is not the first time it has happened and the post office at the other end of the village was targeted recently too. i came here to get my paper but found this instead. At least I got my exercise."
Drivers have been turning up to to their morning shop but are quickly being forced to turn around and find somewhere else.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police via the non-emergency number 101, quoting crime reference 41/58796/18 or report information online at www.herts.police.uk/report.
Alternatively, contact the independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or through their anonymous online form at www.crimestoppers-uk.org
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel