POLICE in the Forest of Dean are investigating the theft of a cash machine from a garage in Huntley in the early hours of this morning, Friday 10 November.

Officers were called to the Ross Road garage shortly before 1.30am where it was reported that the cash machine had been blown from the wall with a gas canister and the contents stolen.

Some cash was found on the floor at the scene, including some new, plastic notes which had been shrivelled by the heat.

Officers believe that the incident may be linked to a report of an attempted theft of a cash machine at the Co-op store in Newerne Street, Lydney which was reported just before 1am.

In both cases a white car has been reported in the vicinity.

Nothing was stolen during the earlier incident.

Investigating officers would like to hear from anyone who saw any suspicious activity in either location or has any information which would help them with their enquiries.

Detective Inspector Richard Pegler said: "We know that some of the notes from the stolen cash machine were affected by the explosion and would like to hear from anyone who is given any money which look as if they have suffered heat damage.

"Fortunately no-one was injured during the incident, but we are keen to identify those responsible and remove the threat of them doing this again. This is likely to be the work of a more organised group and may be part of an ongoing series, please be vigilant and report any similar suspicious activity around cash points, particularly those in remote and rural areas ."

Anyone with information is asked to call Gloucestershire Constabulary on 101, or email [email protected], quoting incidents 14 (Lydney) or 21 (Huntley) of 10/11.