Police investigating two commercial burglaries in the same north Dorset town are appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to come forward – with CCTV images being released.

The first reported incident occurred at about 6.35am on Sunday 23 October at the Diamond Scissor Barber Shop in High Street, Gillingham. Two men forced their way into the store, but it is not clear whether anything was taken.

The second incident, which happened at The Filling Station in Station Road, was reported to police at 8.30am on the same day. Again, entry had been forced to the premises at some point overnight and a till and drinks were stolen.

PC Dominic Upshall, of Dorset Police, said: “Following initial enquiries, I am now in a position to release CCTV images of the suspects.

“I am aware that the images are not of great quality, but I am hoping that they jog somebody’s memory of that night.

“Also, there is a distinct number 3 on the arm of the top one of the men is wearing, which might help identify who this person is.

“In addition, I am hoping that somebody might have witnessed suspicious activity during the relevant times at either location and can assist my enquiries.

“If anyone was driving in the areas and has dashcam fitted, please check for anything that may help us find out who is responsible for these incidents.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk/contact or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55220172460. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.