Northamptonshire Police is appealing for information after thieves blew up a cash machine on a forecourt in Wellingborough Road, Rushden.

The attack happened at the Texaco Garage in the early hours of Monday, 28 November, when the offenders used a gas cylinder to cause an explosion, which damaged the cash machine and enabled them to steal a quantity of cash. A white estate vehicle was seen leaving the scene.

Detective inspector Helen Knight said: “This was clearly an extremely dangerous thing to do, so close to a petrol forecourt, and it is fortunate that no further explosion or damage was caused.

“It appears that no-one was seriously hurt, however, it is possible that the thieves were injured in the explosion, either sustaining burns or shrapnel type injuries.

“Anyone with any information is urged to contact Wellingborough CID on 101. Alternatively, anyone who wishes to remain anonymous can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.”