THIEVES used a waste bin to steal cash from a Pets at Home store in Basingstoke.

A female member of staff was locking up the store in Wallop Drive around 5.30pm on Sunday, 29 April, when a man approached her.

When he approached her, he threatened the woman and forced her to let him into the store, which she did. He was then joined by two other unknown men.

Once inside, the men stole a quantity of cash before leaving. They used a blue waste bin, taken from the store, to take the cash away.

No-one was injured during the robbery.

Officers are appealing for eyewitnesses to come forward with any information.

Detective Constable Ian Cullen said: “We are keen to hear from anyone who saw what happened or has any information that may help our investigation.

“In particular, we would like to hear from anyone who parked their car at that time on the service road that runs from Wallop Drive to the back of Hatch Warren Retail Park.

“We know this a popular parking place for people who walk their dogs in Beggarwood Park. We believe the men would have parked a vehicle on this road.

“Did you see anything suspicious? If so, please get in touch.”

A spokeswoman from Pets at Home said that staff wellbeing is their main priority in these types of situations. 

The spokeswoman said: "We are co-operating with the police in their efforts to find those responsible. Our foremost concern has been for the wellbeing of our colleagues. Thankfully no one was seriously hurt in this attack." 

A similar incident happened at the store in November 2017, when a small quantity of dog toys were stolen and the thieves attempted to gain access to the till. 

Police are appealing for witnesses who may have seen the incident to come forward with any information. 

If anyone saw the incident or has any information they are asked to contact the police on 101 quoting 44180158024.