CIGARETTES, alcohol and cash have been stolen after thieves broke into Bashley Village Stores in the New Forest.

During the raid, a front window was smashed to gain entry to the shop in Bashley Road.

Located just outside of New Milton the incident took place sometime between 12.15am and 12.40am on Saturday.

The thieves snatched a variety of tobacco goods valued at around £5,000, as well as a half a dozen bottles of spirits worth around £100.

They also forced their way into the store’s post office counter, where the tills are locked overnight and stole around £300.

Attempting to enter the post office cubicle via a glass partition they caused extensive damage but were unable to smash through it.

The shop is now open for business however the damaged post office counter is expected to remain closed for at least a week after the break-in.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the police on 101.