TWO men have broken into a Co-op store in Braintree and stolen cigarettes.

Burglars are believed to have used crow bars to break into the shop in Challis Lane at around 5.30am this morning.

The shop was due to open at 6.30am this morning but remained closed until roughly 11am.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “We were contacted at 5.30am today, Saturday, May 19, with reports of a burglary at The Co-Operative in Challis Lane, Braintree.

“Two men forced a door open and stole a quantity of cigarettes.

“Enquiries are ongoing.”

Witnesses or anyone with information should call Braintree CID on 101 quoting reference 42/69168/18.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.