Halstead's MP has called cash machines “easy targets” for thieves across the country.

James Cleverly said the outside store machines may soon be a thing of the past with other payment types become more popular.

In a post on Facebook, Mr Cleverly said he had met the area management of the Co-op who had called Tuesday morning’s incident a “well organised robbery using heavy equipment”.

Mr Cleverly said: “It is increasingly clear that this isn’t just local yobs but that Co-op stores are being specifically targeted.”

He continued: “Even if police numbers were to significantly increase, cash machines like these will always be relatively easy targets for thieves, and there have been a number of similar incidents across the country. In the age of widespread chip and pin and contactless payment terminals in shops the days of external cash machines must surely be limited.”

The politician called for residents to help police and also wants to hear residents views on the machines.

Visit www.facebook.com/james.cleverly.