Police are hunting thieves who kicked a hole in a shop window during an attempted robbery.

The incident occurred at the Chelmsford Star Co-op store, in Church Road, Benfleet, but the thieves were put off from stealing anything after a burglar alarm was activated.

Sgt Kevin Diable-White said a witness had heard a loud bang when thieves kicked the hole in the large front window.

He said: "The witness saw two men outside the Co-op and immediately called the police when they saw the damage to the store.

"The smashed glass activated the shop's burglar alarm and it appears this being set off startled the thieves as they run off without taking anything from inside."

The men are both described as white, between 18 and 22, about 5ft 10, of slim build wearing navy tracksuit bottoms with white stripes and trainers. One of the thieves had a black jacket and short dark hair while the other wore a navy baseball cap.

Witnesses to the incident which took place at 1.20am Friday should call police on 01268 756221.

Published Monday, June 9, 2003

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