BURGLARS in crash helmets have smashed their way into a convenience store.

Two men wearing helmets broke a window of the sliding door of the Co-op store, in Spring Lane, Bishopstoke, at around 2.40am on Monday.

It is thought they used a hammer.

Despite setting the alarm off, which activates a smoke deterrent, the men forced their way into the cigarette cabinet and stole an unknown number of cigarettes, before making off with the haul on a moped.

No-one was in the store at the time.

Police arrived moments after the burglars disappeared and are conducting house-to-house enquiries and forensic examinations.

An Eastleigh fire crew was also called to the scene to deal with the smoke.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has information is asked to call Eastleigh Police on 101 or give information anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111