THIEVES have targeted four businesses in March this week, stealing thousands of pounds in a spate of burglaries.

Burglars broke into Walkers bookshop, in Broad Street, last night - gaining access by smashing an upstairs window. They also caused hundreds of pounds of damage trying to break into neighbouring sports equipment store Marshalls but failed.

On Wednesday night, thieves smashed a back window to gain access to Greetings card shop, in High Street. The offenders ripped the store’s safe off the wall and emptied the till, escaping with hundreds of pounds.

And on Monday night, Italian restaurant Mamma Mia, in Nene Parade, was targeted. Thieves took cash from the till and safe, helping themselves to alcohol from behind the bar and 12 steaks from the freezer in the process.

Forensic experts have today visited Marshalls and Walkers to gather evidence. The thieves are thought to have struck around 10pm.

A police spokesman said: “We are investigating all lines of enquiries, we have a special operation in place to target this series of burglaries using a number of policing tactics.

“We would appeal for anyone who has any information about these burglaries and if you see anything suspicious let us know by calling 0345 456 456 4 or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”