Four men in balaclavas have stolen a "large amount of goods" during a burglary at a Tesco in south Essex, as police launch an investigation.

Essex Police were called shortly before 9.15am yesterday to the Tesco Express at Meadows Rise, Billericay.

It was reported that a group of men forced open the tills and stole cash, cigarettes, and alcohol before leaving the location.

It was also reported that the men were wearing masks at the time.

We're now on WhatsApp. Join our new channel at https://bit.ly/4eGOxig to get all the latest breaking news and exclusive stories delivered straight to your phone.

Witnesses took to social media to describe their shock as they saw "four men wearing balaclavas jump over the till".

It is believed no staff were hurt during the incident.

Phil Turner, Conservative councillor responsible for Billericay West, said: “I really feel for the staff that have been subject to this.

“That is traumatic.

“I really hope all the staff are okay.

“We have had incidents in the High Street of such behaviour before, but although few and far between in Billericay. One incident is one too many.

“I just wish the police the luck in getting hold of guys. And when they do, not if, I hope they are given custodial sentences.”

Tesco was briefly closed following the incident whilst forensics investigated.

A spokesman for Tesco said: “Our Billericay Meadow Rise Express is open as usual following a brief closure yesterday. We apologise for the inconvenience caused.”

A spokesman for Essex Police added: “We are investigating a burglary in Billericay in which a large amount of goods were stolen.

“We were called shortly before 9.15am on Sunday, November 24, to the Tesco Express at Meadows Rise, Billericay.

“If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.

“Please quote incident 393 of November 24 when providing any information to make sure it gets to the right person as quickly as possible.”