RURAL post offices have been put on high alert after a large sum of cash was stolen at Sherfield English. Police believe Monday afternoon's incident at the post office and stores is linked to similar incidents in Hampshire and Wiltshire.

Police say a white man, aged about 45 and of medium build and with brown hair, entered the shop at the corner of the A27 and Graemar Lane and asked for vegetables. The shopkeeper and the man went outside to where vegetables were displayed and the man kept her talking for about five minutes. On her return inside the shopkeeper discovered a substantial amount of cash had gone from the till. Police believe an accomplice sneaked in while the man spoke to the shopkeeper outside the premises.

The shop was closed on Monday afternoon while forensic evidence was gathered. West Hampshire police spokesman Alan Smith said the man made no threats. Detectives believe the two men escaped in a dark-coloured Ford Mondeo or Vauxhall Cavalier.

"It's possible the Sherfield English incident could be linked to another crime in Wiltshire. Some witnesses have come forward but we need more information. House-to-house enquires have been carried out. Our advice to shopkeepers is not to leave the shop unattended and be alert," said Mr Smith. A similar crime happened the following evening at Shedfield, near Bishop's Waltham. A large sum of cash was stolen.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the police on 08450 454545 or ring Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 in confidence.