THIEVES broke into town centre premises and escaped with cash and vouchers from the safe.

Detectives in Chester-le-Street are appealing for information after burglars broke into commercial premises in Front Street, Chester-le-Street, and made off with vouchers and cash after forcing their way into the safe.

They took High Street vouchers, which can be redeemed at major stores such as Argos, Boots, and JJB Sports, and are green and cream, as well as Choice vouchers, worth either £5 or £10, and are either purple or blue.

The break-in happened between Wednesday night and Thursday morning, but the business has asked police not to reveal its identity.

Anyone who may have been offered the vouchers is asked to contact police on 0191-388 4311.