Hooded raiders have struck at a supermarket in Kidderminster – and detectives believe the same men are responsible for earlier driving head on at a police car almost forcing it off the road.

Raiders targeted the Tesco Express, Stouport Road, early today.

Tesco spokesman Rory Stoves said he could not confirm if anything was stolen but added: “Thankfully no staff or customers were harmed. We are cooperating with police on this matter.”

Police are linking the raid to an earlier break-in at Round Oak Motor Services, Stourbridge Road, Brierley Hill, when a stolen getaway vehicle was used.

A man living nearby called 999 to say he could see someone with a crowbar and wirecutters making a hole in the security fence. Brierley Hill officers arrived and the offender jumped into a black Vauxhall Astra which sped off towards the Waterfront.

It forced a police car on the way to last night’s 11.30 incident to swerve, clip the kerb and puncture a tyre. Officers were unhurt. Acting Detective Chief Inspector Richard Jones said the car is believed to have been used later at the Kidderminster Tesco burglary.

Raiders are also thought to have stolen petrol in Birmingham and committed a burglary at Dillons newsagents, Bournville.

Act DCI Jones said offenders were prepared to stop at nothing to get away.

Police want witnesses to get in touch and anyone who can help is asked to call 0845 113 5000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

The car used at Round Oak Motor Services was stolen in Birmingham on February 2. The legal number plate is BG58 HHW and the false plate is AE56 ZBH.