A MECHANICAL digger, believed to have been stolen from the M25, was used to steal a cash machine from the Tesco Express store, in Shenley, at the weekend.

The theft took place at 3am yesterday (Sunday) morning after thieves drove a digger, believed to have been taken from the roadworks area of the motorway, into the front of the store on Porters Park Drive.

The digger was recovered in nearby Radlett Lane.

Det Sgt Yvonee Carroll, investigating, said: “We are working to trace those responsible for this crime, which has caused substantial damage to the store.

“As the vehicle was stolen from the M25, I’d appeal for residents beyond Hertfordshire’s boundaries not to discount anything they may have seen that raised their suspicions in their local area – a suspicious vehicle in the early hours, for example – please get in touch.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police via the non-emergency number 101. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.