BRAZEN thieves smashed their way into a motorbike shop in usually peaceful Hampshire village.

The ramraiders struck at Husky Sport in Cheriton near Alresford at around 10.30-10.45pm last night.

They used a Land Rover to crash through the protective screen and glass windows before taking a number of the off-road bikes.

A villager today said there had been two loud bangs and two attempts to break in.

One villagers said this morning: "I heard it, a bang. I went out because I thought someone had hit my car. I saw a Land Rover and another vehicle that was pulling a horse box and I heard voices.

"They must have realised I was there as I had a torch.

"I went back indoors and ten minutes later there was an almighty crash and I saw people taking bikes out of the shop. I called the police and they (the raiders) made off a little bit quick. I didn't frighten them. They were absolutely brass necked taking the bikes.

"I saw a 15-16 year old in a grey tracksuit and hoodie top taking a bike. They left the Land Rover in the middle of the road with the engine running. The police arrived about 15-20 minutes later. I didn't get to sleep until 2.30am the adrenalin was running."

Husky Sports, which has been based in the village for years, was unavailable for comment.

The raid comes a week after a digger was used to smash into the Tesco Express in Springvale Road in Kings Worthy.