THOUSANDS of pounds worth of cigarettes were stolen by ram-raiders who smashed their way into a cash and carry warehouse.

Burglars targeted Booker Cash and Carry, on the Hoo Farm Industrial Estate, Kidderminster, at 12.30am on July 4.

They drove a Land Rover stolen from Kings Heath, Birmingham, through the main entrance shutters before loading bags with an unspecified but large quantity of cigarettes, according to a Kidderminster Police spokesman.

Witnesses then spotted them driving away in two other vehicles at high speed. The incident caused damage to the structure of the building and other stock.

Police have appealed for witnesses to call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.