RAIDERS armed with crowbars and angle grinders broke into a national bank in Christchurch.

At around 1am this morning, three men reportedly forced entry to Santander on Christchurch High Street with crowbars and angle grinders before fleeing the scene in a black Volkswagen Golf.

Officers attended the scene, but the offenders have not been located.

It is believed nothing was taken during the break-in.

Now, police are appealing for witnesses to come forward with any information relating to the incident. 

Detective Inspector Marie Greer, of BCP CID, said: “An investigation is underway and a cordon is in place at the bank to allow for an examination of the scene to be carried out.

“I am keen to hear from anyone with information about suspicious activity in the area to please come forward.

“There will be an increased police presence while enquiries are carried out and we would like to thank the public for their patience while the cordon is in place.”

A Santander spokesperson said: “While no money was taken, following an incident overnight our Christchurch branch is currently closed.
 
“We are sorry for any inconvenience caused to our customers.

"Customers can complete everyday banking activities including making cash deposits, at the Post Office branch that is just a few minutes' walk away from our Christchurch branch, while the nearest Santander branch for those who need it is in Bournemouth.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55240029069.

Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.