DETECTIVES are investigating whether the theft of a Ford Focus in Eccleston is linked to an incident on the same night in which a car was smashed into the front of a chip shop.

Police say that between 1.40am and 2.40am on Tuesday (January 22), unknown offenders broke into to a property on Kiln Lane. They stole a set of car keys before making off in a white Ford Focus ST, with the registration YR67 FLV, which was parked outside the property.

At around 3.20am a white Ford Focus, believed to be on stolen plates, was then driven into the shutters of The Big Chippy on Warrington Road in Prescot before driving away.

There was no attempt to gain entry but extensive damage was caused to the premises.

Detectives are examining whether the two incidents are linked and appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward.

  • Anyone who saw the stolen white Ford Focus ST in the early hours of Tuesday or has any information about where it is being stored is asked to DM @MerPolCC or call 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 quoting reference 19100021769.