TWO masked burglars have forced entry into a Co-op store.

The offenders broke into the Co-op on Front Street, Sedgefield, at about 11.45pm on Tuesday (August 29).

PC Ashleigh Canvin, from Durham Constabulary, said: “The offenders used a crowbar to wedge open the front door before causing extensive damage inside the store.

"An alarm sounded before the balaclava-clad pair made off.”

The robbers, believed to be male, are thought to have left empty-handed or in possession of a small amount of cigarettes.

PC Canvin added: “Some members of the public may have been woken by the alarm.

"We are appealing for anyone who has noticed any persons or vehicles in the area around this time, or to anyone who may have information which would assist officers in their enquires to come forward.”

Anyone with information should contact PC 2569 Canvin via 101 or contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.