A CCTV image has been released after tobacco and cigarettes were stolen from a delivery lorry in East Dorset.

The articulated lorry was parked outside the One Stop store on Horton Road in Ashley Heath while making a delivery at around 11.30am on Thursday, April 25.

Three men approached the lorry before stealing a quantity of tobacco and cigarettes from one of the delivery cages on the tail lift.

The delivery driver attempted to stop the offenders but was unsuccessful and they ran off from the scene, possibly in the direction of the nearby trailway.

Police have now released an image of one of the men they need help to identify in connection with the theft.

Police Community Support Investigator Kate Hann, of East Dorset police, said: “From our CCTV enquiries we believe the suspects may have used a silver car during this crime. A number of vehicles were seen to travel past the store at the time of the incident and I would ask any motorists who were in the area and may have witnessed the theft or have any relevant dashcam footage to please come forward.”

They are also keen to speak to a man who was seen to leave the store as the suspects ran away who they believe may have important information. He is believed to have been driving a white 4x4.

Members of the public who see cigarettes being offered for sale locally in unusual circumstances are asked to contact Dorset Police.

Anyone with information should visit www.dorset.police.uk, 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by call 101, quoting occurrence number 55190062095. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.