RAM-raiders have targeted a Fareham business, stealing furniture worth thousands of pounds.

Detectives believe the thieves used a van or lorry to break into Eagleway Freight at Wallington Industrial Estate.

Once they had buckled the entrance door the gang helped themselves to an array of furniture valued at more than £6,000 including:

Five divan beds.

A mattress.

A Hotpoint washer and dryer.

A leather sofa and chair.

A three-piece suite.

A chest of drawers.

Operations manager Dave Challis said: "We are only a small business so this sort of thing really affects us. In the years I have been here we have never had anything like this happen. It is unheard of around here."

The raid was carried out between 2pm on Saturday and 7am yesterday when Mr Challis, 32, discovered the property was missing.

He said: "It was a real mismatch of stuff they have taken, like beds without the mattresses and a chest of drawers without the mirrors that go with it. I saw immediately when I came in that the door was open. They have buckled the door to get in so that will cost us thousands to repair no doubt."

As a result of the raid security is being stepped up at the industrial estate unit.

Meanwhile police are appealing for anyone who has information about the incident to contact them.

PC Charlotte Harben said: "We believe the theft took place between Saturday afternoon and Monday morning. Anyone who saw a lorry or van in the area or who may have been offered furniture over the last couple of days, please contact us."

Contact Fareham police station on 0845 045 4545.