INTRUDERS broke into a petrol station and tried to get into a cash machine in the early hours of Monday.

The raid occurred at Naz Self Serve station in Shadsworth Road, Blackburn, at around 4.20am.

Police were alerted by an alarm at the garage and discovered that the building had been broken into and its ATM targeted.

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No money was taken from the ATM.

The post office inside the petrol station had to be closed for a short time.

Police were still at the garage, which also has a Post Office branch, yesterday afternoon.

Managing director of Naz Self Service, Rahena Jan Ahmed, said the intruders had caused a lot of damage.

She said: “We’ve had the business closed until 10am and we’ve lost trade for four hours and the ATM is still broken. They didn’t get away with any money. They’ve caused a lot of damage in the shop.”

A Post Office spokesperson said: “Post Office can confirm there was a burglary at the location of Shadworth Post Office today.

“The people who run our Post Office branches provide important services to local communities.

“Any burglary or attempted burglary is very unpleasant for the victims and we will be supporting police in their efforts to apprehend those responsible.”

Ward councillor, Cllr Tony Humphrys, said: “I am extremely angry and frustrated that this has happened.

“It’s very popular because people can get their money and do a bit of shopping and it’s handy for people who don’t have cars.”

A police spokesperson said: “We were called following reports of a burglary in Shadsworth.

“Officers were alerted to an intruder alarm at a property in Shadsworth Road around 4.20am.

“Offenders are believed to have gained entry to the building and targeted a cash machine inside.”

The spokesperson added that no-one was injured or arrested in the incident.

Anyone with information can contact police on 101 quoting log reference 130 April 4.