Shoe store raid gang legs it with £10k haul

Shoes worth about £10,000 have been stolen from a shop in Kidderminster. Thieves struck during a store refit, and police today appealed for help in tracing the culprits.

West Mercia officers urged anyone offered footwear in unusual circumstances to come forward.

The haul, which included both men's and women's shoes, was taken from Shoe Zone, in Vicar Street.

Shoes were snatched from the shop floor and stock room during the break-in between 5.30pm on June 30 and 8.45am on July 1. .

The store is currently closed for refitting.

Pete Gilbey, area manager for Shoe Zone, said: "The thieves took £10,000-worth of shoes in retail terms, but this was not the full stock."

He said that it was hoped the shop would reopen on Thursday or Friday, but said he could not comment further.

West Mercia Police said that the raid on the shop is the only one recently where shoes have been stolen.

Pc Nick Locock said: "It is possible that the offenders may try to sell these goods on at car boot sales or Sunday markets, so we would ask anyone who is approached to buy shoes to contact us immediately."

Anyone with information is asked to call 0300 333 3000.