Three men forced entry to the Waitrose store in Bargates at around 12.05am on Tuesday 7 September and stole a large quantity of cigarettes, before leaving in a small white van.

Police Constable Ryan Higgins, of East Dorset police, said: “An investigation is underway into the incident and a number of enquiries are ongoing.

“I am appealing to anyone who saw or heard any suspicious activity in the area, or may have seen a small white van, to please come forward.

“I would also urge motorists who were driving around Bargates to please check their dashcam for any footage to assist my investigation.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55210144397. Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call Freephone 0800 555 111.