Around £40,000 worth of designer handbags and coats were stolen during a ram raid robbery at an Altrincham store.

Police are investigating after being called to the Flannels store on George Street at 12.30am this morning.

Police responded to reports that a grey Toyota Aygo had reversed into the window.

A white Ford Transit van and a blue Audi A4 also pulled up next to the store, multiple thieves ran in and stole the expensive items.

Offenders drove away from the scene in the van and Audi, leaving the Toyota behind.

Police have started an investigation into the incident, discovering that the designer handbags stolen were priced at £1000 each and the Canada Goose coats taken were worth over £800 each.

Officers are appealing for witnesses of the robbery, CCTV footage and information on those who may have been involved.

Detective Inspector Dave Jones from GMP's Trafford Borough said: "This was a significant robbery with goods costing thousands of pounds stolen.

"A robbery of this magnitude could considerably damage the business and will have left the staff as well as local people incredibly concerned and upset.

"We are keen to find those responsible as soon as possible, this was a well thought out robbery and we do not want the offenders to think that they can do this a second time.

"Anyone with any information or CCTV showing any part of the incident should get in touch with police as soon as possible.

"We will have an increased police presence around Altrincham and we would like to encourage any concerned members of the public or business owners to come and speak to our officers."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact police on 0161 856 7747, alternatively call 101 quoting the reference number 59 of 2 February 2019 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.