Ram-raid attack is second in a week

Thieves smashed a Land Rover through the metal shutters of a Wolverhampton store during a early-morning ram-raid.

Bosses at the Somerfield store in Warstones Road, Penn, have been left counting the cost following the attack – the second in the Black Country in a week.

The 4x4 was driven through the shutters at around 3.40am yesterday morning although nothing was taken in the attack.

A spokesman for Somerfield said today: "A Land Rover was driven into the front of our store causing considerable damage.

"Nothing was taken, although an attempt was made to access the kiosk.

"Police are currently investigating the incident and we are helping them with our inquiries. The full extent of the damage caused to the building is still being assessed.

"We apologise to our customers for any inconvenience caused and thank them for their patience."

Shoppers said they worried about the attack.

One woman, who did not want to be named, said: "It is quite a shock. I come here all the time and it is not nice for the staff as they are all really nice."

The store was expected to be open as normal today.

The ram raid comes a week after the Nisa Extra store, in Stroud Avenue, Willenhall, was targeted by thieves who reversed a 4x4 through two sets of shutters and a large plate-glass window.

Bollards set up to prevent ram raids at the Brackendale Shopping Centre, which houses the Nisa store, failed to thwart the attack just before 5am on March 4.

Police were called to the shop which used to be a Spar shop, after the alarm was raised by the store's security company.

Manager Daniel Vukelic said although they managed to get through the doors they had fled empty-handed.

In that attack the driver fled in a silver-coloured car, possibly a Subaru.

Police are investigating both ram raids. Anyone with information should call Bilston Street police station on 0845 113 5000.