Ramraiders smashed their way through the front of a shop and ripped out a cash machine.
Boarded up - the store in Marlowe Road, Jaywick, following the raid. Picture: TERRY WEEDEN (40219-2)
The raiders struck at the Mace Stores, on Tudor Parade, Jaywick, at 2.15am on Saturday.
Anne Hook, who owns the store, said the residents in the flat above the shop heard the noise and raised the alarm. She said they saw six men wearing balaclavas.
"They put chains and straps around the cash machine and ripped it out," Mrs Hook said. "Half the shop front has been ripped out. We've had to get it all boarded up."
The raid caused thousands of pounds of damage including shelving inside the store and to some stock.
Mrs Hook said: "We have been here for seven years. It's a little community and you feel like it's your home someone has done this to. It isn't a nice feeling at all."
Anyone with information is asked to contact Clacton police on 01255 221312 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111
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Published Monday, January 10, 2005
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