THREE cash machines were targeted in raids in York and Harrogate.

Police believe four or five men were involved in the incidents.

North Yorkshire Police were called at 1.20am today to reports of a break-in at Starbeck Post Office, on the High Street. Money was stolen from the cash machine inside the building after it was forced open.

At 3.56am officers were called to the Post Office on Colliergate in York, to reports of a break-in. Police believe the intruders targeted the cash machine and investigations are ongoing to establish how much money was taken. Colliergate remains shut at both ends after raiders have ripped a cash point from the window at the Post Office which is about half way down the street opposite Barnitts. The road is closed to traffic and pedestrians and police scenes of crime are at the scene.

During a third incident at the Co-op shop on Hull Road, York, offenders damaged the shutters at a cashpoint but did not leave with any money. It was reported to police at 6.23am today when staff arrived for work.

The circumstances surrounding the incidents suggest they are linked.

In each case, officers attended and secured the scene and conducted extensive searches of the areas.

Anyone who witnessed anything suspicious before, during or after the incidents or has any information that could help the investigation should contact North Yorkshire Police on 101 and select option 1.

You can also contact the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Please quote reference 12190105573 when sharing information.

The attack follows two incidents in 48 hours last month where thieves broke into cash machines in York at Today's Express on Haxby Road and the Select Convenience store and Post Office on Moor Lane in Huntington.

York Press:

Police at the scene in Colliergate this morning Picture: Haydn Lewis