A COUNCILLOR has offered his support to staff at a Co-op after the store was targeted by robbers.

Essex Police are investigating a robbery at the Co-op store in Lawling Avenue, Heybridge, which took place on March 26.

Three crooks were involved in the raid, according to police.

Police said the trio entered the Co-op at about 9.15pm, stole cash and cigarettes, and smashed wine bottles.

Thankfully, no one was injured.

Nick Spenceley, ward councillor for Heybridge East, said: “I’m shocked to hear there’s been yet another robbery at the Co-op.

"My sympathy goes out to the staff who must once again feel extremely vulnerable.

“I hope community policing in this area will be strengthened to reassure local people.”

It is not the first time the shop has been targeted.

Among other incidents, police were called to the supermarket in November 2021 after reports of the shop being robbed by three men.

The suspects, who all had their faces covered, were said to have threatened staff with a crowbar and a hammer before fleeing with cash and cigarettes.