Raiders have stolen a cash machine from the Co-op in Aspatria, leaving a hole in the side of the building.

Local reports suggest a JCB or similar was used to haul the machine out of the wall of the King Street store.

The burglars struck at about 3am yesterday.

A Cumbria Police spokesman said: "Police are investigating a burglary where an ATM machine was stolen from the Co-op store.

"The incident happened shortly before 3am on Monday, October 2. Offenders forced entry into the building and attached a rope to the ATM before removing it from the store using a heavy vehicle.

"Police are appealing for any witnesses that may have seen any suspicious activity or vehicles in the area."

Alan Reay, deputy mayor of Aspatria, said he had been told a digger was used to remove the cash machine from the shop.

"Someone told me that a JCB was being carried on the back of a tractor. I've heard they got the digger off and used that to pull the cash machine out."

Mr Reay said it was concerning that such a crime had been committed in a town like Aspatria. "It's strange that not many people seem to have heard or seen anything," he said.

"It's definitely something that will be getting raised with the PCSO at the next town council meeting."

Anyone with information is asked to email 101@cumbria.police.uk or call 101 quoting log number 26 of October 2.

Information can also be reported anonymously, via Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111.