Police are appealing for information after both a burglary and an attempted break-in and assault in Galgate.
The first incident took place at The Village Store Spar on Main Road sometime between 10 and 11.30pm on Wednesday 8th August. It would appear that the offenders approached the rear of the shop and forced open the rear door, then forced open an internal security door before gaining entry to the counter and stealing over £6,000 of cigarettes and tobacco.
The shop was then targeted again last night (Monday 13th August) between 10 and 11.00pm. The offenders again attempted to enter the premises via the rear door but on this occasion, they were disturbed by the owner of the shop.
As the owner of the shop came out and challenged the offenders, he was assaulted and received a head injury. He was taken to hospital for treatment but has since been released.
Officers are investigating the possibility that the two incidents could be linked and are appealing for anyone with any information to come forward.
“I would appeal to anyone who may have seen or heard anything around the time of either of the offences or to anyone who may have noticed any suspicious activity in the area leading up to them to contact us,” urged Detective Sergeant Fiona Jackson.
“We believe, following the second incident that the offenders left the scene at high speed in a silver vehicle, possibly a Skoda Octavia, in the direction of the M6 and Garstang so I would appeal to anyone who thinks they may have seen this vehicle to come forward.
“I would also be keen to speak to anyone who may have been offered cigarettes or tobacco for sale to come forward if they have any information that they think might help.”
• Information can be passed to police by calling 101or alternatively, information can be passed to the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.