Thieves broke into a family-run opticians and stole £15,000 worth of stock, causing £1,200 worth of damage.

Templemans Opticians, which has been based in Frobisher Way, Shoebury, for decades was targeted late on Sunday.

The independent business owner found out when he went into work the next day.

The raid happened at some point between 10.45pm on Sunday and 1.45am on Monday.

Business owner Ian Templeman, 51, said it would not be easy to replace the amount of stock taken.

It is thought the burglar forced open double doors at the front of the shop with a crowbar.

Mr Templeman said: “He took about 250 pairs of glasses frames, including designer brands such as Ray Ban and Ralph Lauren.

“I came into work the next day and security from another shop were in my shop and they were talking about it.

“It has been shocking for our staff and upsetting for everyone including our patients.

“We are a small family-run business and something like this is difficult for us.

“We think we know the man who did this and we think he is a career criminal who has done this sort of thing before.”

Mr Templeman said he and his family have been serving the community for decades and yet this person has taken away some of their living.

He said he feels as though the burglar doesn’t care about what he’s done.

Mr Templeman said: “Forensic officers have been at our business, they arrived within about four hours.

“What has happened is distressing for us as a family and as a business.”

The family are appealing for anyone with information about the incident. They have CCTV and say the suspect is described as tall, slim and dark skinned.

Essex Police confirmed officers were called to the burglary.

Anyone with any information about the incident please call us on 101 quoting the crime reference number 42/81630/18 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.