OFFICERS investigating the attempted theft of a cash machine from a supermarket have released CCTV images of a man they would like to speak to in connection with the incident.

The incident happened at around 10.15pm on October 14 at the Co-op store in Kelloe.

Five men are believed to have forced entry into the store which had recently closed for the day and attempted to pull a cash machine from the floor of the shop using a rope attached to a vehicle.

They were unsuccessful in their attempts and left empty handed after causing significant damage.

Detective Inspector Andy Reynolds, from Durham CID, said: “We would like to speak to the man in the images in connection with our investigation.

“If anyone recognises him they should contact us on 101.”

Three men, aged 31, 33 and 27, have since been arrested in connection with the incident and released under investigation.

A blue Mitsubishi 4x4, which officers believe was used in the offence, was found burnt out a short time later in the village.

Anyone with any information can call Durham Constabulary on 101, quoting crime reference number CRI00084190.