THIS is the scene in Darlington this morning after thieves used explosives to gain entry to a cash machine in the early hours of Thursday morning.

The explosion was heard from two miles away after the blast in Neasham Road at around 1.20am this morning.

The cash machine appears to be on the floor next to the destroyed building but it is unclear whether the robbers escaped with any cash.

One woman, who asked not to be named as she left her house opposite the scene this morning, said: "I've never heard anything like it. I shot up straight in bed."

Joan Latcham, who lives opposite the scene, said: "I heard a big bang but just thought that it was fireworks at first. When I looked out of the window, I could see crowds of people out on the streets.

"I don’t know how anyone wasn’t hurt in the explosion, they must have used a timer or something.

"Whoever did it must have been fast as the police were here within minutes."

Debris from the explosion can be seen scattered over a 50ft area of the car park surrounding the Matalan store.

Staff from neighbouring shops have started clearing the debris when outside their premises as they attempt to carry on with business as usual.

The forensic team left the scene at 8am but officers remain at the entrance to the Neasham Road retail park, which is currently sealed off with police tape.

Acting Inspector John Hoar from Durham Constabulary, said: “The suspects have used an explosive device causing significant damage to the cash machine.

“It is not yet known if the suspects managed to get away with any cash as investigations are in the early stages. A cordon will remain while we conduct our enquiries.

“We would like to reassure local residents that this is a targeted isolated incident. We would encourage anyone who saw any suspicious activity or was in the area at the time to get in touch.”

It is understood that a car was seen leaving the scene at around the time of the incident. Anyone with information about this car or the incident can call 101 quoting reference 20 of October 26.

Durham Police added: "Anyone with any information regarding any suspicious persons or vehicles seen in the area should contact police quoting incident number DHM-26102017-0020."