BURGLARY AT CHRISTCHURCH RESTAURANT

Detectives are appealing for witnesses and information from the public after a burglary at a restaurant in the town in which thieves stole a substantial amount of money.

Sometime between 2am and 5am on Thursday, 4 September 2008, burglars forced their way into McDonalds Restaurant in Somerford Road Christchurch and made off after stealing several thousands of pounds in cash from a safe.

Detective Constable Steve Pryce of Ferndown CID, said: “The three burglars – with faces covered – forced a rear door and then cut their way into the restaurant safe before removing several thousands of pounds.

“I suspect that the three burglars are all men and I know that they crossed Somerford Road at about 5am after leaving the restaurant and went through a gap in the fence opposite.

“I’m interested in the movements of a white Mercedes Sprinter van that may be connected with the burglary and I’d like to hear from anyone who saw such a van in or around that area either late on Wednesday evening or early Thursday morning.

“The van may have been parked up in an unusual place, or it may have been seen travelling along the roads in the vicinity of McDonalds.

“I’m also keen to hear from anyone who saw or heard any other suspicious activity in or around the restaurant, again either late on Wednesday or early Thursday morning.

“There may be someone somewhere, perhaps several people, who know or suspects that they know those responsible for this burglary and I would appeal to those people to please do the right thing and call the police.”

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 01202 or 01305 22 22 22 or the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.