A ram raid has taken place at a Co-op Food store in Halstead overnight.

The store, in Colchester Road, Halstead was targeted at around 2.45am this morning.

A lorry is believed to have been used to destroy the wall at the front of the shop, before the raiders made off with an ATM machine. 

The stolen ATM has been recovered by Essex Police, along with three vehicles which are believed to have been involved.

Witnesses reported between five and eight people near the ATM.

All of the suspects are believed to be men and were wearing dark clothing.

No arrests have been made.

Officers are keen to trace the driver of a Mitsubishi Shogun which was seen in the area at the time.

The colour of this vehicle is not known.

Detective Inspector Rob Kirby from Braintree CID, said:

“Once the building has been made safe by Essex County Fire & Rescue Service, we will be able to carry out a forensic examination of the scene.

“We are working to establish whether any money was stolen from the recovered ATM.

“We’re also keeping an open mind as to whether this is linked to other incidents which appear to have similarities.

“Thank you to members of the public who have assisted us so far.

“If you have any information which could help us further, please contact my team of detectives.”

Please call Braintree CID on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

A spokesperson for the Co-op, said: “An incident occurred at our Colchester Road, Halstead, store in the early hours of this morning.

"Extensive damage has been caused, and the Police are investigating.

"We appeal for anyone with information to come forward.

"It is too early to confirm further details or indicate when we will be able to re-open to serve the community.”

Here is a video from the scene: