BURGLARS using a sledgehammer have smashed their way into a Sonning Common newsagent to steal cigarettes.

Three men wearing dark clothing broke in the store in Peppard Road between 2.10am and 2.20am on Thursday.

Using the hammer to break the glass in the shop’s front door the trio gained entry before making off with the cigarettes.

They are described as all wearing dark clothes and driving off in a silver Ford Focus.

Investigating officer Detective Constable Georgina Bradley, from Abingdon Local CID, said: “I would like to speak to anyone who witnessed the incident or who saw a silver Ford Focus, believed to be approximately 10 years old, in the area at around the time of the burglary.

“The vehicle is believed to have left the scene and turned left towards Henley.

“I would also appeal to any local residents who may have their own CCTV within a 10-mile radius of the shop to check their cameras for a silver Ford Focus travelling between 1.50am and 2.30am.

“If you have any information about the burglary please contact police.”

Anyone with any information about the incident should contact Det Con Bradley from Abingdon Local CID on 101.