Appeal following criminal damage and burglary incident in Cheltenham

Officers in Cheltenham are appealing for witnesses to an incident which took place earlier this morning, Saturday 25 June.

Police were called to Tesco on Colletts Drive at 7.10am after it was reported that a man had been acting suspiciously and attempted to steal a handbag from within a car.

A member of the public then stated that the man had walked to The Stronghold Gym on Lower Mill Street where he was seen to throw bricks to get inside before smashing a number of items.

He went on to damage a vehicle parked in the area before gaining entry to a house.

The man was confronted by the homeowner before stealing their phone and running away.

He continued to Honeybourne Way and Millbrook Gardens before trying to get into another property.

Officers located a man in the area before arresting him in connection with the incident.

A 25-year-old of no fixed abode was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and burglary. He remains in police custody at this time.

Despite the arrest officers are keen to hear from anyone who may have been at Tesco, The Stronghold Gym or any of the surrounding residential areas between 7am and 7.45am this morning.

Additionally they would like to hear from anyone whose vehicle may have been damaged whilst parked at either of the business locations.

Anyone who has information or was targeted by the man is asked to complete the following online form quoting incident 83 of 25 June: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/contact/af/contact-us/us/a-crime-that-has-already-been-reported

Alternatively you can call 101 or speak to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.