RAM-raiders reversed a truck into the front of a garage in an attempt to steal cash from the till - but ended up with little more than a box of chocolates.

The pair of thieves wearing balaclavas used a Subaru pick-up truck to smash into the front of the Texaco garage in Bridge Road, Lower Swanwick.

Hundreds of pounds' worth of damage was caused to the Star market shop as the glass doors were completely shattered. The pair were then able to reach into the shop and take £40 of goods, including a box of chocolates.

A Texaco spokesman said: "The most important thing was that none of our staff were involved as the shop was closed at the time.

"We imagine they were after cash but we don't keep any on the premises overnight so they could only steal the items in the shop.

"The videotapes from CCTV cameras have been handed over to the police to help their investigation."

Sgt Barry Thompson of Fareham police said the tapes would be examined for clues to the identity of the masked pair.

He said: "It seems that as soon as they reversed into the front of the shop the alarm was activated. Nevertheless, they appeared to have reached in and taken what they could, including boxes of chocolates."

Staff spent Sunday clearing up the mess left by the raiders who struck at 4.30am and were able to reopen by midday.

Anyone with information about the incident should contact Park Gate police on 0845 045 4545.