Ram-raiders caused hundreds of pounds of damage and stole a haul of equipment from a business on a Telford industrial estate.

The three burglars reversed an Iveco flatbed lorry into the roller shutter doors at the premises in Horton Court, Hortonwood, yesterday, between 9pm and 9.35pm. 

After reversing the lorry into the unit, they managed to break in and load dozens of boxes of printer cartridges on to the van.

The burglars then fled the scene in the lorry, but crashed into another vehicle as they made their escape.

The crash happened close to Trench Lock Garage just after 9.45pm, forcing the thieves to flee on foot. 

They left the stolen property behind in the van, which is now being examined by forensic investigators.

Police said no-one was injured in the crash. Chris Ammonds, Telford police spokesman, said: “The thieves managed to access the premises and stole a number of boxes of printer cartridges before making their escape in the van.

“We have number of forensic leads to follow up, but are keen to hear from anyone who has information that may help our investigation. 

“Anyone with information about the initial burglary, or anyone who may have seen the three suspects fleeing the scene of the road traffic collision, is asked to contact Telford police on 0300 333 3000.”