CCTV images of men police want to speak to in connection with a burglary at a restaurant have been released.

Nearly £2,500 in cash and cheques was stolen from Bashall Barn, in the Ribble Valley village of Bashall Eaves, when burglars broke in and ransacked it.

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During the attack, they managed to get into the Bowland Brewery from inside, where the money was taken.

Officers said the attackers then escaped without being detected.

An investigation has been launched and police are appealing for anybody with any information about the burglary, or who recognises the men in the CCTV pictures, to contact them. It happened during the early hours of February 22.

The three men were all described as wearing light-coloured clothing. One was wearing a baseball cap and the others had on beanie-type hats.

A spokesman for the Twitter Lane venue, which has several retail outlets, a coffee shop, ice cream parlour and national award-winning restaurant, said CID detectives had been to the premises searching for clues.

He added that Bashall Barn was still open for business.

PC Pete Chattle, of Clitheroe Police, said it was important anybody who might have seen someone acting strangely in the area shortly before or after the attack spoke to officers.

He said: “I would urge anyone who recognises the men pictured in the CCTV images to contact us. Similarly, if anyone saw any suspicious activity in the area at the time of the burglary or has any information that could help with our enquiries then please do come forward.”

Coun Janet Alcock, who represents the Aighton, Bailey and Chaigley ward, said it was difficult for independent companies, especially when they received setbacks like these.

She said: “It is really hard for local businesses, people are trying to make a good go of it, but even though the economy is looking up it is still difficult.

“There are people who think they can make a fast buck and they regard the Ribble Valley as an easy target.

“Let’s hope the police catch the perpetrators quickly.”

Anyone with any information should call Lancashire Police on 101 quoting crime reference EG1500912.

Alternatively, they can contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or online at Crimestoppers-uk.org. No personal details are taken, information is not traced or recorded and you will not go to court.