POLICE have issued an appeal after thieves ransacked a shop at a petrol station in Thornbury overnight. 

Around four people targeted the Spar convenience store near Thornbury Motors in Grovesend Road at around 12.15am on Wednesday, August  7.

Avon and Somerset Police say the offenders stole cigarettes, set off a fire extinguisher as well as smashing windows and bottles of alcohol. 

Officers believe the thieves left the incident in a dark-coloured car.

A police spokesperson said: “Several people called 999 at about 12.15am today, Wednesday, August 7, reporting the burglary. 

“Officers attended just over 10 minutes later and found the door smashed. 

“The thieves had damaged fittings, smashed bottles of alcohol and set off a fire extinguisher as well as taking cigarettes. 

“Up to four people wearing dark clothing were reportedly involved, and they made off in a dark-coloured car. 

“If you have any information about the burglary - or if you're offered tobacco products in suspicious circumstances - please call 101 and give the reference 5224206225. 

“Alternatively, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100 per cent anonymously by calling 0800 555 111, or online.”