Explosion in Hampshire cash point raid at petrol station
A cash point was blown open in an explosion during a late-night raid at a Hampshire petrol station.
Police were alerted by a resident who heard a loud bang which shook homes near a Texaco garage in Amesbury Road, Weyhill, at 03:52 BST.
The first officer to arrive at the scene put out a small blaze caused by the explosion. Gas cylinders were discovered nearby.
No-one was working at the petrol station at the time.
Chief Inspector Gary Cooper advised residents to avoid the petrol station.
He added: "We understand the sound of an explosion shook some nearby homes and alarmed local residents.
"I would like to praise them for remaining calm and alerting the emergency services promptly."
Police said the amount of money stolen was not yet known.
Witnesses have reported seeing a number of people seen running across field towards the A303 and Red Post Lane at about 04:00 GMT.
The petrol station remained closed earlier.