Robbery at Robinsons

Fifteen motorcross bikes and a Volkswagen Transporter van have been stolen from a shop on Water Street, Rochdale.

Police received reports of the burglary on Friday 2 May 2008 and it is believed the offence happened at some point throughout the previous night.

The offenders managed to get into the back yard and force a window. It is believed they loaded the bikes into the stolen yellow Volkswagen van, registration number OE55 MVH, and drove away from the premises.

David Dearden, Managing Director of Robinsons, told Rochdale Online: "The phone lines were cut to disable the alarm; they got through a window grill and forced open internal doors. It was clearly a professional job and they knew what they looking for.

"The stolen bikes included our grand prix race team bikes, and we really want these back because of all the development work we have done on the bikes."

Mr Dearden said Robinson's were considering offering a reward.

Detective Constable Nigel Humphreys of Rochdale CID said: "The offenders have broken in to the shop between Thursday night and Friday morning.

"At the moment, no one we have spoken to has been able to provide details of when the offence actually took place, or even how many offenders were involved.

"If anyone noticed anything suspicious on Water Street please get in touch."

If anyone has any information regarding this incident please contact Rochdale CID on 0161 856 4644 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111

Date article online: 04/05/2008