BURGLARS made off with £100,000 of goods and cash after raiding Woolworths in Wickford High Street.

The thieves, who broke in through the fire escape, ripped security cameras and alarms from the ceiling before gathering up games consoles, including Microsoft Xboxes and Sony PlayStations.

They also took video games, other electrical goods and smashed open tills and a safe, helping themselves to thousands of pounds.

It is estimated they caused around £20,000 damage.

Insp Sue Heaton, of Wickford Police, said: "We believe the burglars may have been in the store for up to three hours.

"During that time they caused extensive damage to the shop's ceilings and cleared the shelves of valuables.

"Because of the length of time they were in the store it is possible someone may have seen them removing their large quantity of ill-gotten gains.

"We would appeal to witnesses to contact us urgently.

"Also if anyone is offered items, such as Xbox or other games consoles, in suspicious circumstances they should contact us as this may lead us to the thieves."

The store has been closed for two working days and is expected to re-open today.

A spokeswoman for Woolworths added: "These criminals caused a significant amount of damage to our store as well as stealing valuables worth thousands.

"We are working with the police and would urge anyone with information to come forward."

Anyone with information about the burglary, which happened between 2.30am and 5.30am on Monday, should call police at Basildon on 01268 532212 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.