CROOKS smashed their way into a tyre supply business and stole around £33,000 worth of stock.

They used equipment to cut holes in metal fencing and brick walls to get inside Micheldever Tyres Ltd on Wilcock Road in Haydock,

When workers opened up they discovered thousands of pounds of premium tyres had been taken.

Police, who are appealing for information about the robbery, believe the thieves used a heavy goods vehicle to take the tyres away due to the large number and weight of them.

Detective Constable Stuart Whittaker from St Helens CID said: "They have caused a considerable amount of damage and would have had to use a large vehicle to load the tyres into so I am hoping their activities might have attracted someone's attention. Perhaps you noticed men outside the premises after it had closed but thought nothing of it at the time? If there is anyone out there who remembers seeing anything suspicious or untoward then I need to hear from them.

"This is a local business which has suffered a huge loss of stock as well considerable damage to the building. The offenders have clearly planned this burglary well and gained access around the side of the building where they have been out of sight. To remove pieces of fencing and bricks from external walls to get inside is extremely unusual and must have involved a large number of people and specialist equipment.

"The thieves have gone for premium brand tyres, mainly for 4x4 vehicles and luxury cars, so I would appeal for anyone who is offered these kinds of tyres for sale in suspicious circumstances or at a heavily discounted price to call St Helens CID on 0151 777 6013 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

The thieves struck between the evening of Friday, April 15 or in the early hours of Saturday, April 16.