Smash-and-grab jewellery raid

One year on from a smash-and-grab jewellery raid on a shop in Leigh, police are renewing appeal for information by releasing images of the stolen property.

Two men smashed their way into CJ Vinten Goldsmiths on Leigh Road shortly after 10.30am on Wednesday, June 10, 2009 using a sledgehammer.

They stole a number of rings worth approximately £17,000 from the display shelves

The pair then rode off on a black Piaggio moped down Fernleigh Road.

 These two men drew a lot of attention to themselves as they had to ride up onto the pavement and then strike the window several times.
Dc Jessica Draycott

Dc Jessica Draycott, the investigating officer, said: "The moped was stolen from Great Wakering earlier that day for this specific crime. It was later found abandoned on Sandleigh Road.

“These two men drew a lot of attention to themselves as they had to ride up onto the pavement and then strike the window several times before it finally gave way and broke. The rings that they stole were unique. We ask people to cast their minds back a year, look at the descriptions and recall their movements on these streets."

The men are described as white, approximately six foot tall, aged in their late teens or early 20s and of skinny build. At the time, they were dressed in full motorcycling leather outfits.

The majority of the rings had the letters CJV inscribed on the inside.

Anyone with information should contact detectives at Benfleet police station on 0300 333 4444 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.