RAIDERS smashed through the entrance of a Hampshire science park last night in a bid to steal a cash machine.

The would-be thieves reversed through the main double doors of the University of Southampton Science Park, in Venture Road, in a Land Rover, after removing a bollard.

They used a large towing strap to put around a cash machine in the main entrance in an attempt to rip it out of the building.

However, their bid failed when part of the vehicle's tow bar snapped off, smashing into another window.

The gang then fled in a white van, abandoning the Land Rover, when a security guard disturbed them.

Although their attempt to steal the cash machine was unsuccessful, they caused £12,000 worth of damage.

Scenes of crime officers were at the scene this morning as their investigation gets underway.

Anyone with information about the raid, which happened at 10.50pm last night, should call PC Philip Dennett at Hedge End police station on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.