A village store is now employing a night security guard after burglars stole a haul of cigarettes.
Thieves forced the rear doors of the Budgen's store in Bidford at 2.25am last Thursday then forced their way into a storeroom containing cigarettes and alcohol.
Joy Newham, press officer for Budgen's, said: "This is an unusual incident to have occurred and as a result the store now has a night security guard.
"The police did manage to chase them all the way to Birmingham but, unfortunately, lost them."
Crime officers at Alcester are investigating security boxes and display trolleys moved by the offenders for forensic evidence.
Alcester police officers are investigating the case.
Anyone with information is asked to call 01926 415000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article