DEAD of night intruders in Newton Abbot escaped with more than £1,000 in a safe after raiding town centre premsies.

Thieves helped themselves after breaking into the Lemon Jelli bistro in Queen Street.

Police would not say how much was in the free-standing strongbox snatched by the burglars.

But it is understood the haul amounted to a four-figure sum.

The duo struck in the early hours of December 3 at the back of the property where they forced a rear door.

Police are anxious to speak to anyone who may have seen anything suspicious at the time of the raid, estimated between 12.40am and 12.50am.

One witness saw two men making their escape towards Cricketfield Road and the Courtenay Centre.

Anyone with information should contact police on 101, quoting crime CR/83249/15. They should ask to speak to PC Tom Northmore.

Forensic and CCTV evidence is being examined, said the spokesman.