The branch is closed as investigations continue and the damage is repaired. Credit: Aaron Chown/PA
A front of a Post Office in Derby was badly damaged in a blast after thieves attempted to steal a cash machine.
Derbyshire Police said they had been called to reports of an explosion at the Post Office in Chapel Street, in the Spondon area of Derby, at about 4.45am on Monday.
Debris, including the shop’s front door, had been thrown across the pavement and the ATM had been moved about a foot by the force of the blast.
The cash machine was blasted out the front of the shop. Credit: Aaron Chown/PA
Despite the explosion, nobody was hurt, police added.
In a statement, the force said: "Officers were called to the Post Office on Chapel Street in Spondon this morning, to reports of an explosion.
"On arrival it was found that an attempt to steal the ATM machine had been made. Inquiries are still in the early stages."
The scene after an explosion during an ATM raid in Derbyshire. Credit: PA
Police added: "Anyone with information relating to the incident is asked to contact us on 101 quoting incident number 86 of October 22."
The Post Office confirmed no members of staff were inside the shop at the time.
A spokeswoman said: "We will be supporting the police in their efforts to apprehend those responsible.
"In the meantime, the branch is temporarily closed – we apologise to our customers for any inconvenience caused."