Police say a gas canister was used to blow up a cash machine during an overnight raid last week.

Burglars rammed the front of the Co-op store in Cunningham Way, Leavesden, shortly after 2am last Thursday.

They left a trail of destruction, smashing the window of the store, knocking down a bollard, as well as causing significant damage to the ATM machine.

Watford Observer:

They were able to steal a "considerable" amount of cash before three people were seen fleeing the area in a white Mercedes.

A police cordon was in place throughout Thursday morning. The fire service also attended to check the safety of the building - which was deemed fine.

Watford Observer:

Detective Sergeant Steven Boddy from the Rickmansworth local crime unit who is investigating the incident are appealing for witnesses and information said: “This was a well-executed theft and we need to trace those responsible as a matter of urgency. The incident itself was very noisy and anyone nearby would have been aware."

Any witnesses or anyone with information should contact DS Boddy on steven.boddy@herts.pnn.police.uk or 101, quoting reference ISR 043 of 13/06/2019 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800555111.