AN INVESTIGATION has been launched after ram-raiders smashed their way into a Southampton convenience store.

Police say three offenders gained entry to Hollyoak Stores, in Lordshill, by reversing a silver car into the shutters at 3.30am on Saturday.

They then stole cigarettes before fleeing the scene.

A police spokeswoman said: "Three people are believed to be involved; all wore hoods and had their faces covered."

Anyone with information regarding the incident, on Hollyoak Road, is ask to call 101 quoting reference 44170044525.

Cllr Don Thomas, Independent city councillor for Coxford, said: “This ram-raid and robbery has caused so much damage to the shop, the fixtures and loss of merchandise which is quiet shocking, unfortunately this is not the first time that Hollyoak Convenience Stores have been targeted.

"I shop at Hollyoak Stores every morning to buy my Daily Echo, and other bits, the boys work so hard always friendly and polite working hard supplying this area with a much-needed and valued service.

"Whoever is responsible for this carnage should feel completely ashamed of themselves, anyone who has any information I hope would get in touch with the police without hesitation.”