WOULD-be criminals are being warned by police they could be electrocuted when breaking into electricity sub-stations.

The alert follows an attempt by three men to get into a Central Networks sub-station in Blackpole Road in Worcester around noon on Thursday.

They were seen approaching the sub-station across the canal and then running off a few minutes later when the alarm was set off.

The men, aged between 20 and 30, were wearing jumpers and trousers and escaped in a white Ford Transit.

A police spokesman said: "An electricity sub-station is, by its very nature, a dangerous place to be as there is high-voltage current passing through it.

"Only experienced professionals should ever go in there and anyone else doing so risks serious injury or even death."

Police would like to hear from anyone who saw anything suspicious in the area or who recognises the description of the men and the vehicle.

They can be contacted on 08457 444 888, quoting 414S/080307.

Information can also be given anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.