Two men have been jailed for their part in a shop ram raid.

Brendon Bell, 20, of Great Ranton, Basildon, Robert Blackmore, 29, of Butneys, Basildon and a 17-year-old from Basildon, who cannot be named for legal reasons, were all charged with burglary after they broke into a shop and attempted to steal cigarettes.

The raid happened at about 2.35am on Thursday, January 18.

The raiders used a vehicle to ram the shutters of Co-op store, in Kiln Road, Benfleet.

Three robbers then entered the store and smashed a cigarette counter with a hammer.

However, their bid was a failure and they left empty handed.

Police officers spotted the car at 3am in St Nicholas Lane, Basildon, and signalled it to stop without success.

It was later found in Ardleigh.

Police then stopped three people in Pomfret Mead in Basildon.

They matched the description of the suspects and were arrested and later charged.

Bell was given one year sentences for two burglaries and three months for breaching a suspended sentence, to run concurrently.

Blackmore was jailed for 18 months for burglary.

They both admitted the offences and were sentenced at Basildon Crown Court.

Bell was also sentenced for a business burglary in Courthauld Road, Basildon, at 8pm on Wednesday, April 17 last year where copper piping and tools were taken.

He breached a suspended sentence given to him at Basildon Crown Court last July for driving a vehicle dangerously.

The teenager admitted burglary and was convicted at Basildon Youth Court.

He was ordered to complete a youth rehabilitation order and was ordered to pay £600 compensation and complete 120 hours unpaid work.

He is also subject to curfew and supervision requirements.

Investigating officer Det Con Matthew Musson, of Basildon CID, said there was a quick and decisive police response after the raid.

He said: “All three defendants were determined to steal as many cigarettes as possible for their self-gain, causing a considerable amount of damage to the business.

“We responded to the incident, identified the vehicle and with assistance with a police helicopter and dogs, quickly located them.

“They have shown no remorse and certainly have not considered the financial impact on the victim.

"Bell and Blackmore will have time to think of their actions locked in a prison cell.”