Smash and grab gang on mopeds target jewellery shops in Oundle and Uppingham

A cross-border police investigation is under way after two jewellery shops were broken into over two nights by what is believed to be the same gang armed with a sledgehammer.

Made Gallery in Uppingham Market Place was targeted overnight between Tuesday (August 18) and Wednesday (August 19).

Harpur's in West Street, Oundle, was then targeted on Wednesday night at about 11.35pm.

Glass jewellery cabinets in both shops suffered extensive damage and many items were stolen during the raids. Harpur's had been celebrating its 18th birthday on the day of the burglary.

Northamptonshire Police said that they believe there were four offenders riding two mopeds who smashing the front windows of Harpur's with a sledgehammer before stealing items. They made off in the direction of Stoke Doyle.

The four riders are described as -

Person 1 – blue and white crash helmet, black Adidas trousers and grey trainers.

Person 2 – black helmet, grey jacket, black Adidas trousers and black trainers.

Person 3 – grey and black helmet, heavy build, black sweatshirt and black Nike trousers

Person 4 – Silver helmet and a jacket with red stripes.

Anyone with information should contact police 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.