Raiders have smashed their way into a high street bank using a JCB digger and fled with an ATM.
Police said “significant damage” had been done to the Barclays Bank in Olney, Milton Keynes, during the early-morning raid on Sunday.
Officers were called to the scene on High Street at about 3.05am following reports that a JCB had been used to force entry to the bank.
Thames Valley Police closed the road while the building was assessed for safety.
Investigating officer Inspector Kellie Smith said: “This road closure is in place for the safety of the public. We are aware this will cause disruption this morning as it is a main route in Olney and we will work with our partners to partially re-open the road as soon as it is deemed safe to do so.”
Police are appealing for any witnesses to the incident to get in touch by calling 101 quoting reference 43180231409, or contacting Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 500 111.