Attempt to steal cash machine from Preston store foiled

Lancashire Police have arrested three men for attempting to steal a cash machine from a convenience store in Preston.

The trio has been charged in connection with the incident at the Co-op on Granton Walk, Ingol, Preston on 11 July.

Officers were alerted to an ongoing break-in at 10.30 pm, but the offenders had already fled the scene in a stolen BMW after a member of the public intervened.

The three – Anthony Lees, 35, of no fixed address, Nathan Green, 36, of Sale Road, Manchester, and Joseph Pike, 30, of Tabley Street, Ashton-under-Lyme – were nabbed following a hot pursuit by the officers.

They have reportedly used power tools to gain entry to the premises, before attempting to remove the cash machine using a vehicle.

The suspects, due to appear at Preston Magistrates Court, face charges of burglary and vehicle theft. Green was also charged with dangerous driving.

Police have issued an appeal for witnesses in relation to the incident, particularly to those with CCTV or dashcam footage. Anyone with information should call police on 01772 209749 or 101, quoting log reference 1740 of 11th July, 2020.