Cash machine thieves spark explosion at post office

A shopfront was badly damaged in a blast after thieves attempted to steal a cash machine.

Derbyshire Police said they had been called to reports of an explosion at the Post Office in Chapel Street, in the Spondon area of Derby, at about 4.45am on Monday.

Debris, including the shop's front door, had been thrown across the pavement and the ATM had been moved about a foot by the force of the blast.

Despite the explosion, nobody was hurt, police added.

In a statement, the force said: "Officers were called to the Post Office on Chapel Street in Spondon this morning, to reports of an explosion.

"On arrival it was found that an attempt to steal the ATM machine had been made. Inquiries are still in the early stages.

"Anyone with information relating to the incident is asked to contact us on 101 quoting incident number 86 of October 22."

The Post Office confirmed no members of staff were inside the shop at the time.

A spokeswoman said: "We will be supporting the police in their efforts to apprehend those responsible.

"We would urge anyone with information to contact the police or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

"In the meantime, the branch is temporarily closed – we apologise to our customers for any inconvenience caused."