DETECTIVES are hunting a gang that stole five cars during a burglary at a showroom in Bromborough.

In the early hours of Monday morning, the group cut through a padlock to the gates and gained entry to the forecourt at Bromborough Road Car Sales.

After breaking in they made an untidy search of the office.

They took keys to five vehicles before taking the cars from the forecourt.

Equipment and tools were also taken from the premises.

The vehicles stolen were a grey Ford C-Max, a silver Ford Fiesta, a green Ford Focus, a silver Lexus is200 and white VW Transporter camper van.

The Lexus was later recovered on Tower Road, Birkenhead.

Police attended the scene and a search of the area was carried out.

Crime scene investigators have forensically examined the building and CCTV from the business and surrounding area is being reviewed.

Detective Constable Jon Head said: "This is an independent local business and the owner is understandably devastated that it has been targeted.

"It's shameful that there are people who think it is acceptable to destroy other people's hard work and enterprise for their own gain and we are determined to bring those responsible before the courts.

"I would appeal to people who may have seen anything suspicious around Bromborough Road overnight on Sunday into Monday to get in touch with us as soon as possible."

Anyone who has seen vehicles matching those described or has information about the incident is asked to contact Wirral Burglary and Robbery Team on 0151 777 2039 or Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111.