Smash and grab at Downton Co-op
Burglars break-in overnight at newly refurbished village store
Last updated 31st Dec 2021
A large quantity of cigarettes and cash have been stolen during a burglary at the Co-op supermarket on The Borough in Downton.
It happened at approximately 3.45am this morning (Fri 31 Dec).
Crooks smashed their way through a window to get into the shop before making off with cash and a large quantity of cigarettes.
Police are investigating and say it's believed the offenders left the scene in a black vehicle, heading towards Redlynch. Enquiries are ongoing.
POLICE WITNESS APPEAL
Anyone with information should call 101 and quote crime reference number 54210126738.
The Downton Co-op Store Manager, Paul Roberts, posted on Facebook saying:
"Just to let you all know, we are open and trading but as you will see we have lots of work to do to repair the kiosk and windows after the robbery last night. For this reason we will not be serving from the kiosk until it is safe to do so. This does mean that there will be no cig, lottery or paypoint sales until it is safe for my staff to do so."
"We are hoping that it is going to be fixed around midday but that is clearly subject to change and we will do the best we can to be back to normal ASAP!"
"Apologies for the inconvenience caused this morning and thank you to all the local residents for phoning the police with details of what happened."
BURLGARY: DISTRESS FOR DOWNTON CO-OP
The break-in will come as a major blow for the community, and those who work at the the Downton Co-op. The store has just undergone a significant refit and facelift, including a new shop front and signage.
There was a similar incident at the Downton Co-op in December 2014 in which cigarettes and tobacco were stolen.