RAIDERS smashed their way in two Pitsea businesses before swiping the tills.

George’s Cafe, in Station Lane, and Broadway Barbers, in High Road, were unable to open yesterday morning, after traders arrived to find their businesses cordoned off by police.

Thieves got in by smashing the glass panels in the front doors.

Mustafa Kirkim, who works at George’s Cafe, said: “I arrived to open up at about 6.30am and the police were already here.

“The glass at the front of the shops has been smashed and I could see immediately what had happened.

“We have not been able to go inside the shop yet, because there are police forensics taking finger prints and collecting evidence.

“There is blood inside from where the burglars cut themselves on the way in. They took our till and have caused quite a lot of damage to the front.

“It is upsetting because we are a family-run business and we have been here for more than 15 years.”

The burglars targeted the traders at some point between 1am and 5am on Tuesday. The front of George’s Pie and Mash and Broadway Barbers were cordoned off for much of the morning while the businesses cleared away broken glass.

Forensic officers were also seen scouring the scenes for fingerprints and DNA evidence.

Anyone with information about either of the break-ins should contact Essex Police on 101.

Or leave information anonymously with independent charity, Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.