Would-be thieves fled the scene after being disturbed while trying to steal oil from a Wiltshire fish and chip shop, according to a police appeal.

Officers are searching for a blue van believed to be linked to several similar crimes in Mere.

Mere Police posted an appeal on Facebook on Friday (February 12).

The post revealed Mere Fish and Chips was targeted on February 4 but suspects were unsuccessful while trying to escape with oil.

Police want the public's help as they investigate, with a blue Ford Transit van thought to be connected to other similar incidents at two pubs.

Mere Police appeal in full

We are appealing for information following an incident of theft from a fish and chip shop in Mere.

The incident occurred on Thursday, February 4 when it is reported that at around 2pm suspects have attempted to steal barrels of used oil from the back of Mere Fish & Chips.

They made off without any oil after being disturbed. It is believed that a blue Ford Transit van is connected and it is linked to similar incidents at The Walnut Tree pub in Mere and The White Hart Pub in Corsley.

Anyone with any information is asked to call us on 101 and quote crime reference 54210011246.

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