The Co-op store in Dedham has become the latest to be targeted by criminals in a ram raid.

The store, in High Street, was targeted at around 2.20am today, Sunday December 10.

A black Toyota Hilux was used to ram the building, causing “considerable damage” Essex Police said.

The vehicle was left at the scene by the suspects.

East Anglian Daily Times: Those with long memories may remember the Co-op in Dedham was involved in a ram raid in 2004. Picture: JAMIE NIBLOCKThose with long memories may remember the Co-op in Dedham was involved in a ram raid in 2004. Picture: JAMIE NIBLOCK

They drove off, empty-handed, in another vehicle – believed to be a dark-coloured estate type car.

Detectives want to hear from anyone who saw anything suspicious, or who has CCTV or dash cam footage.

Anyone with information should contact Colchester CID on 101 quoting incident 117 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

A number of Co-op branches, and other convenience stores, have been subjected to similar attacks in north Essex and Suffolk over the past two years, where criminals have targeted the outlets’ cash machine.

Most recently, the Co-op in Great Cornard was targeted on Wednesday, December 6, while the previous day the store in Rickinghall was also subjected to a ram raid.