A CONVENIENCE store was targeted by raiders in an early hours burglary.

One Stop, in Marsh View Court, off London Road, in Vange was broken into during the early hours of Monday morning.

The store was forced to close during the morning and Essex Police have launched an appeal to find the raiders.

Pauline Kettle, Independent councillor for Nethermayne said it is a concerning incident.

She said: “I had heard about this and had heard police were on scene.

“This is a good shop that I have been to a few times.

“I was a bit surprised to her about the burglary.

“These incidents do cause some concern in the community.”

She added: “I think it’s daunting for people in the area.

“I think older people will be wary about going out which is a real shame.

“Shops like this provide a chance for older and more lonely people to meet and chat with people which is important.

“As it was forced to close it must have been really bad.

“I hope these people are caught and it doesn’t have too much of a bad impact on the store.”

Essex Police is now appealing for witnesses to come forward.

A spokesman for the force said: “We were called on Monday February 10, following a burglary at One Stop Community Store, in Marsh View Court, Vange.

“We received information that suspects had broken into the shop at around 4.30am before taking items from within.

“There was also damage to the building.

“Anyone with information is asked to call Basildon police station on 101 quoting crime reference 42/22377/20 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”