A CHICKEN restaurant has shut after it was burgled and damaged in the early hours of this morning.

Chicken and Blues in Winton was targeted by thieves who broke in to steal the till, the company's membership machine and damaging wiring and other parts of the interior.

It is not yet known what the damage will cost or how much was stolen in the raid.

The incident saw the company closed today as staff tried to clear up the mess.

Ameer Kamel, franchisee of the Wimborne Road branch, assured customers neither restaurants at Ashley Cross or Boscombe had been affected.

"We apologise for any inconvenience and ask that if members of the public have any information please contact the police," Mr Kamel added.

It is anticipated that the restaurant will reopen for business tomorrow.